On Being Right: Greenberg’s African Linguistic Classification and the Methodological Principles which Underlie it

Loading...
Thumbnail Image

Other Version

External File or Record

Can’t use the file because of accessibility barriers? Contact us

Date

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

West African Languages Insitute, Indiana University

Abstract

Series and Number:

EducationalLevel:

Is Based On:

Target Name:

Teaches:

Table of Contents

Description

This study examines and elucidates the methodology of Joseph H. Greenberg used in his classic classification of African languages. Topics discussed include (1) lumpers versus splitters, (2) the question of proof , (3) the signifiance of sound correspondences and the Comparative Method, (4) the importance of vocabulary vs. morphology, and (5) the method of mass comparison. The study contains an extensive bibliography.

Citation

Journal

DOI

Type