JLP315H1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Hawaiian Pidgin, Language Acquisition, Universal Grammar
Document Summary
5 general criteria to determine if a system is based on the biology of a species. The specific properties of its cognitive function are replicated in every member of the species. The cognitive processes and capacities associated with this system are differentiated spontaneously with maturation. Certain aspects of behaviour and cognitive function for this system emerge only during infancy. Certain social phenomena come about by spontaneous adaptation of the behaviour of the growing individual to the behaviour of other individuals around him. Language unique to humans (likely to be part of their genetic make-up. No other animals use language (but do use communication) No other animals can be taught language (debatable though) All human babies are capable of learning any language. All languages are cut from the same mod (universal properties: universal grammar (ug): blueprint for language same components, same organization and functions, same principles and parameters; variation is constrained and at the surface.