GENERATIVE PRINCIPLE AND GENERATIVE GRAMMAR

Generative (Chomskyan) grammar is a theoretical methodological complex, which was initiated in terms of absolute exactness and which today is undefinable as to its methodology or substance. Chomsky and his followers have formulated principles which cancel earlier principles and/or which mutually oppose one another. The historical unity of generative grammar, however, can be recognized. The formation of different schools and varieties of generative grammar was not fortuitous, but an inevitable consequence of the fact that the initial theory itself was contradictory. Most innovations in generative grammar came about when grammarians were compelled to break up a closed system and to dispense with an essential feature when it was a matter of its application. There is a contradiction in the principle of generative grammar, and between the principle and its realization. Chomsky's views cannot be considered superior to structuralism. Problems investigated by structuralism revolve around two topics: (1) the psychological aspect of linguistic structure; and (2) the dynamics, the history of linguistic structure. Chomsky concerned himself with the human aspect of language, but not with its social aspect; he was concerned with linguistic innovation and creation but not with the history of language. Chomsky has exerted his influence not by what he effectively suggested or provided but by having contact with certain ideas in certain specific cases. Through this transposition, Chomsky has fostered progress and his theory has proved to be an "antigen" of much significance in linguistics. AA