Principles of Radical CV Phonology - (Edinburgh Studies in Theoretical Linguistics) by Harry Van Der Hulst (Paperback)

About the Book

A new theory of the structure of phonological representations for segments and syllables

Book Synopsis

Harry van der Hulst's model of Radical CV Phonology has roots in the framework of Dependency Phonology, but proposes a rather different 'geometry', which reduces the set of unary elements to just two: C and V. The model explains the phonological distinctions that function contrastively in the world's languages rather than presenting it as a 'random' list.
Van der Hulst shows how this model accounts for a number of central claims about markedness and minimal specification. He explains how the representational system accounts for phonological rules and shows how this theory can be applied to sign language structure. Through comparison to other models, he also provides insight into current theories of segmental structure, commonly used feature systems, as well as recurrent controversies.

From the Back Cover

A new theory of the structure of phonological representations for segments and syllables Based on 30 years of research, this book presents a theory about the 'speech sounds' that occur in human spoken and signed languages. Identifying the ultimate elements of which speech sounds consist, Harry van der Hulst proposes a radical theory that recognises only two elements: C and V. Based on a small set of first principles, the book explains what a possible speech sound is and provides explicit structures for all speech sounds that occur in the world's languages. With numerous examples from hundreds of languages, including Dutch, Czech, Japanese, Kabardian, Hungarian, Korean and Zulu, the book also provides insight into current theories of segmental structure, commonly used feature systems and recurrent controversies. Key features - Presents detailed analysis of phonological contrast - Introduces the central role of dependency relations in phonological structure - Offers comparison to other models including dependency phonology and government phonology - Covers both European and North-American theories - Contains introductions to many other theories including feature geometry models, the Toronto model, the parallel structure model and q-theory, which can be used for phonology courses - Draws on examples from a wide range of languages including Dutch, Czech, Japanese, Kabardian, Hungarian, Korean and Zulu Harry van der Hulst is Professor of Linguistics at the University of Connecticut. He is the Editor-in-Chief of The Linguistic Review and co-editor of the series Studies in Generative Grammar.

Review Quotes

Principles of Radical cv Phonology is the culmination of many years of work and reflection on the nature of phonological representations. The theory, presented in a clear and thorough manner, builds on and synthesizes ideas from a number of different theoretical and descriptive approaches. Its comprehensive treatment of every major issue relating to the basic units of phonology makes this book a valuable resource for anyone with an interest in the cognitive organization of speech sounds and its relation to phonetics.--Prof Elan Dresher, University of Toronto

About the Author

Harry van der Hulst is Professor of Linguistics and Director of Undergraduate Studies at the Department of Linguistics, University of Connecticut.