mathematical modeling of linguistic contact/diffusion

[Leila Monaghan]

Although not directly connected to language, Robert Boyd and Peter Richerson 
have done a lot of subtle work on mathematical, non-deterministic models of 
human cultural behavior.  They might be a place to start for language models.

best,

Leila

Quoting Richard J Senghas <Richard.Senghas at sonoma.edu>:

> A mathematician friend of mine has approached me about exploring the 
> possibilities of doing some modelling of language contact/diffusion, 
> especially with regard to the language I focus on (Nicaraguan Sign 
> Language).  Has anyone on this list been involved in language 
> modelling?  I'd be interested in hearing about the experience.  Feel 
> free to post responses to the list, since those of us who haven't 
> done much modelling could probably do with some exposure to the 
> topic, even if we don't hold with it.  In fact, it may be useful to 
> see what issues or criticisms might be worth addressing if we get to 
> the point of pursuing this in earnest, especially if we consider how 
> to write it up for linguistic anthropologists or other "non-math" 
> folk.
> 
> I'd also love to hear about articles and other publications about 
> modelling that are targeted for non-mathematical audiences, 
> especially social science researchers.
> 
> -Richard
> -- 
> ======================================================================
> Richard J. Senghas, Assoc. Professor     | Sonoma State University
> Anthropology/Linguistics                 | 1801 East Cotati Avenue
> Coordinator, Linguistics Program         | Rohnert Park, CA 94928-3609
> Richard.Senghas at sonoma.edu               | 707-664-3920 (fax)
> 


-- 
Leila Monaghan, PhD
Department of Communication and Culture
Indiana University
Ashton Mottier Hall
1760 E. 10th Street
Bloomington, IN 47405-9700
(812) 855-4607
monaghan at indiana.edu