Complexity and Simplification in Language Shift

This paper examines the question of linguistic complexity in two shift ecologies northeastern Russia. It is frequently claimed that language results simplification across a range domains grammars shifting speakers ( Campbell and Muntzel 1989 ; Dorian O’Shannessy 2011 ). We challenge breadth this claim, showing while there are undoubtedly patterns can be described as some grammatical domain, overall these cannot said to “simple,” one part grammar often corresponds complexification other parts (“complexity trade-offs”). Furthermore, deemed loss or presented such way because they being compared earlier varieties languages; however, entirely typologically expected, consistent with languages world, seen more less complex depending on one’s locus measurement. In paper, we present incipient changes taking place Chukchi (Chukotko-Kamchatkan, ISO ckt) Even (Tungusic, eve) stemming from modern context. evaluate against different notions demonstrate nuanced approach morphosyntactic change obsolescence warranted. While morphological expected scenarios, speakers’ systems (occurring potential adaptations light simplification) provide enlightening avenue for research varieties.