Derivation and Explanation in the Minimalist Program

Derivation and Explanation in the Minimalist Program presents accessible, cutting-edge research on an enduring and fundamental question confronting all linguistic inquiry - the respective roles of derivation and representation.

The volume explores ways in which the Minimalist perspective on transformational rules and their iterative application facilitates deeper explanation than is possible within Government and Binding theory. Through discussion of a wide range of phenomena, the majority of papers in the volume present arguments in favor of derivational approaches, although alternative, representational perspectives are also included.

Derivation and Explanation in the Minimalist Program is essential reading for anyone interested in the foundational yet contemporary issue of derivation versus representation and its relation to current Minimalist method, analysis, and the quest for explanation.