Proponent/Claimant

Maria Niña N. Rafaela Osias Kit T. Kilag,Fideliza U. Cojuangco, Francisca T. Uy, Lorlaine R. Dacanay,Jenicca Yloah C. Pareja

Abstract

This paper examines the intersection of Critical Realism and Noam Chomsky’s theory of Universal Grammar (UG) within the context of linguistic inquiry. Chomsky’s contributions to linguistics, particularly his theory of innate grammar, have sparked extensive debate regarding the scientific rigor of his methodologies. Critical Realism, a philosophical framework that emphasizes the exploration of underlying structures and mechanisms while acknowledging the limitations of human knowledge, provides a unique perspective for evaluating Chomsky’s theories. This study applies Critical Realism to assess Chomsky’s ontological and epistemological assumptions, empirical validity, and explanatory power, offering a nuanced analysis of Chomsky’s approach to language acquisition. Keywords: Critical Realism, Universal Grammar, Linguistic Inquiry, Ontological and Epistemological Assumption

Name of Research Journal

International Multidisciplinary Journal of Research for Innovation, Sustainability, and Excellence

Volume and Issue No.

Volume 1, Issue 9

Date/Year of Publication

September 5, 2024

Citation

Kilag, O. K., Cojuangco, F., Uy, F., Dacanay, L., Rafaela, M. N., & Pareja, J. Y. (2024). The Limits of Innateness: A Critical Realist Examination of Chomsky's Theory of Language Acquisition. International Multidisciplinary Journal of Research for Innovation, Sustainability, and Excellence (IMJRISE), 1(9), 74-79.