Theoretical Linguistics (RITL)

The focus of RITL is linguistic theory. We are predominantly interested in functional and cognitive-typological approaches but organise sessions on formal linguistic research as well. Every year we have a range of invited speakers who talk to us about their research in theoretical linguistics. In addition, each year we choose a theme, about which we read some recent or less recent but nonetheless milestone publications. This year’s theme is language and evolution. By this we don’t really mean the evolution of a specific language but rather the evolution of the language faculty, including its different “levels” (phonology, lexicon, grammar, etc.). We think this is a topic that many of us would like to know more about, yet as it’s not a central research interest of anyone in the Department most of us probably never get around to reading up on it properly. Carefully selecting some key publications to read and speakers to invite, we plan to use RITL to fill that gap. Everyone interested in theoretical linguistics is welcome to attend, including students.

Meetings

Usually Thursday, 12.00 - 1.00

Organisers

Prof. Anna Siewierska and Dr. Willem Hollmann