Control Theory

From Glottopedia
Revision as of 13:40, 18 May 2008 by Luo (talk | contribs) (from Utrecht Lexicon of Linguistics)
(diff) ← Older revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)
Jump to navigation Jump to search

In generative syntax, control theory is a would-be theory that accounts for the referential properties of PRO.

Examples

The fact that John is the understood subject of to do the dishes in (i) but not in (ii) (Susan is the understood subject of to do the dishes in (ii)) is to be accounted for by control theory.

(i) Johni promised Susanj [PROi to do the dishes]

(ii) Johni ordered Susanj [PROj to do the dishes]

Comments

Sometimes the term 'control theory' is used for whatever explains those aspects of the behavior of PRO which are not captured by other theories (such as binding theory or the theory of predication).

See also

Link

Utrecht Lexicon of Linguistics

References

  • Bouchard, D. 1984. On the content of empty categories. Dordrecht: Foris.
  • Chomsky, Noam A. 1981. Lectures on Government and Binding. Dordrecht:Foris.
  • van Haaften, T. 1991. De interpretatie van verzwegen subjecten. Unpublished diss. Amsterdam: Vrije Universiteit.
  • Koster, J. 1987. Domains and dynasties: The radical autonomy of syntax. Dordrecht: Foris.
  • Manzini, R. 1983. On control and control theory. Linguistic Inquiry 14-3, pages.
  • Williams, E. 1980. Predication. Linguistic Inquiry 11, 203-238.