|
|
| Language Introduction Chomsky Bickerton Pinker Brain Theory Conclusion Sumer/Sumeria Civilization Religion Language Sargon Code of Hammurabi Marduk Enki Inanna Asherah Conclusion Biblical References Genesis 'Speaking in Tongues' Tower of Babel Computer Binary Code Snow Crash Sites Bibliograpy Home |
Noam Chomsky's theory of universal grammar states that the defining essence of language is syntax (sentence formation, for example: adjectives precede nouns), which no other species was capable of mastering. Language must be learned and coincides with thinking. Chomsky focuses on the form, structure and rules of language and believes that language is completely isolated from other cognitive and perceptual functions cannot have been proposed by anyone...it plainly does not follow that every aspect of language is language specific, or that language is completely isolated from other functions (Marastos 1999:193).  Derek Bickerton's bioprogram employs the development of pidgens and creoles as an analogy for both the acquisition of language in modern children and the origin of language abilities in general. Bickerton believes that a child is born with a preadapted grammar for any human language but it is not clear how it is employed in later (adult) language (Bloom 1984:190). Linguistic abilities may simply be another function of a general cognitive problem solving mechanism which evolved for an entirely different purpose. However, there seems to be some innate preadaptation for human beings to decode the vocalizations of others. This is accomplished in such a manner that it appears as though these vocalizations and productions follow strict grammatical rules. Steven Pinker's theory builds upon the concept of universal grammar and evolutionary adaptation, proposed that the human brain is innately hardwired for language and that there is a gene for language (Pinker 1994:365). Pinker and Bloom suggest that:
To read more about language theory and origins,visit the library and check out these books:
|
