Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
1872947 | Physics of Life Reviews | 2014 | 23 Pages |
•We survey recent modelling research on language evolution based on two models.•We show connection between cognitive abilities and language processing mechanisms.•We illustrate coevolution of language and relevant abilities.•We discuss socio-cultural effects on language origin and change.•We highlight cross-disciplinary collaboration for future modelling research.
We survey recent computer modelling research of language evolution, focusing on a rule-based model simulating the lexicon–syntax coevolution and an equation-based model quantifying the language competition dynamics. We discuss four predictions of these models: (a) correlation between domain-general abilities (e.g. sequential learning) and language-specific mechanisms (e.g. word order processing); (b) coevolution of language and relevant competences (e.g. joint attention); (c) effects of cultural transmission and social structure on linguistic understandability; and (d) commonalities between linguistic, biological, and physical phenomena. All these contribute significantly to our understanding of the evolutions of language structures, individual learning mechanisms, and relevant biological and socio-cultural factors. We conclude the survey by highlighting three future directions of modelling studies of language evolution: (a) adopting experimental approaches for model evaluation; (b) consolidating empirical foundations of models; and (c) multi-disciplinary collaboration among modelling, linguistics, and other relevant disciplines.