In order to explore this potential a theoretical model of symbol origins is proposed that relies on specific constraints canalizing expectancy and operant learning. It is proposed that this system of constraints underwent Baldwinian selection thereby instantiating, in modern Homo sapiens sapiens, the ability to learn symbols rapidly. In this paper I assume that symbols are arbitrarily and symmetrically related to their referent, and in this way symbols are afforded the property of displaced reference. The relation is arbitrary because the symbol has no direct causal relationship with the referent. Communication is to be regarded as the reliable transfer of information from actor to reactor, resulting in a behavioural change.
Symbols are to be seen as one method of information transfer.
It is worth noting that signals and symbols are to some extent similar. Signals, such as the vervet monkeys repertoire of alarm calls, indicate specific objects, events or states of affairs. Symbols also indicate specific objects, event and states of affairs and trigger behavioural responses. None the less, the relationship between signal and referent is not symmetrical and is based on affective response so nor is it entirely arbitrary. It is the properties of arbitrary and symmetrical relationship between symbol and referent that have to be explained by any symbol origins story.