We present an approach to grammar induction that utilizes syntactic universals to improve dependency parsing across a range of languages. Our method uses a single set of manually-specified language-independent rules that identify syntactic dependencies between pairs of syntactic categories that commonly occur across languages. During inference of the probabilistic model, we use posterior expect...

According to a well-known argument against dispositional essentialism, the nature of unmanifested token powers leaves essentialists with an objectionable commitment reality non-existent entities. The idea is that, because are directed at their manifestations, they require those manifestations. Arguably most promising response this works by claiming if properties universals, directedness need on...

The notion of panchrony is discussed in the context on-going polarization between structurally- and functionally-oriented linguistic paradigms. two radically divergent conceptions are thus surveyed, as envisaged by, respectively, Saussure cognitive linguistics. As not yet a widely accepted research paradigm, it suggested that while functionalists seem to be still search an appropriate understan...

Human languages are diverse and so precise statements of common properties must abstract away from specifics of particular languages. We note several abstract and absolute ‘Type 1’ universals and present some new ones built on a notion of ‘structural invariant’ that applies equally to constituent structure and individual grammatical morphemes. Crucially, these universals may be realized in stru...

This response addresses the following points raised in the commentaries: (a) complementary learning mechanisms, the distinction between explicit and implicit memory, and the neuroscience of “noticing”; (b) what must and what need not be noticed for learning; (c) when frequency fails to drive learning, which addresses factors such as failing to notice cues, perseveration, transfer from L1, devel...

The approach to generative grammar originating with Chomsky (1957) has been enormously successful within linguistics. Seeing such success, one wonders whether a similar approach might help us understand other human domains besides language. One such domain is morality. Could there be universal generative moral grammar? More specifically, might it be useful to moral theory to develop an explicit...