Full Idea
Which was more necessary: an already formed society for the invention of languages, or an already invented language for the establishment of society?
Gist of Idea
Is language a pre-requisite for society, or might it emerge afterwards?
Source
Jean-Jacques Rousseau (Discourse on the Origin of Inequality [1754], Part I)
Book Reference
Rousseau,Jean-Jacques: 'The Basic Political Writings', ed/tr. Cress,Donald A. [Hackett 1987], p.51
A Reaction
Rousseau declines to attempt an answer. Ants and bees seem to do well, but have some means of communication. Ape colonies are quite sophisticated.