Genes, language and innatism: some clarifications
Abstract
Since its inception, the biolinguistic approach has brought important advances to the fore regarding the biological understanding of human language. Recently, professor Raymundo Casas Navarro has published (this journal) a paper with far-reaching ramifications (Casas Navarro 2011), which analyzes key aspects involved in the aforementioned approach. More specifically, his article is concerned with the issue of how to rethink the notion of nativism (and related matters) according to the lines suggested by the Minimalist Program. My paper aims at discussing some of the main theses argued for by Casas Navarro. I will defend some alternative views to those suggested by this scholar, my objective being to highlight and reinforce the reconsideration of the innate aspects of language even more. As opposed to Casas Navarro’s theses, this paper makes the point that ‘genetic’ and ‘innate’ cannot be conflated.Downloads
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References
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