Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
1103491 Language Sciences 2006 13 Pages PDF
Abstract
Assuming grammars concern communication, we distinguish (1) a calculus that controls the coding of information and (2) a protocol that controls the transfer of information. Where a calculus abstracts from the objects of communication, a protocol abstracts from the methods of communication. Adhering to a calculus we speak truthfully and adhering to a protocol we speak properly. Given that the notion of 'proper language' applies to writing as well, the minimum variation in method is in constituent-order. Thus, it is the conventions of constituent-order which are constitutive of 'proper language'. Including a description of these allows a grammar to correctly represent a language without being prescriptive.
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Social Sciences and Humanities Arts and Humanities Language and Linguistics
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