Customer Reviews

Introduction to Government and Binding Theory (Blackwell Textbooks in Linguistics)

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This is a rather popular textbook because it clearly explains the Government and Binding Theory, though Chomsky prefers to call it the Theory of Principles and Parameters. There are quite a number of trees drawn for students to have a better understanding of the concerning structure, which usually lacks in other similar textbooks. This is particularly welcome by beginners since the analysis with squared brackets often makes new hands feel confused and even lost. It is also part of the reason why the book is so thick. The exercises are helpful for students to review what they have learned and to find out what concepts are not fully understood. This is the 2nd edition, which usually means it has a good readership. In fact, it is true.

This is a very clear and at the same time thorough introduction to GB. Each chapter discusses a module or concept of the theory, like phrase structure, case theory, logical form, etc. By means of data from mainly English each part of the theory is developed and explained at an easy to follow pace. At the end of a chapter you will have a good basic knowledge of the topic, and at the end of the book you will be ready to read the primary literature.

At the same time that this book introduces you to GB theory, it also teaches you how "to do" linguistics. By means of example data preliminary principles about language are stated. Those principles are being made more precize as more data is introduced.

I find this book to be a very fascinating read. If you like linguistics and want to know about GB theory this book is a good choice.