The Minimalist Program

by Noam Chomsky
The Minimalist Program cover
Good Books rating 4.08
Technical
  • ID: 1225
  • Added: 2025-10-01
  • Updated: 2025-10-01
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
JSTOR · R Freidin · 1997-01-01
compelling 3.75

The book is praised for its empirical arguments and conceptual depth, although some aspects of the minimalist program are debated. The reviewer finds the analysis compelling but notes areas for further discussion.

R Freidin's review highlights the empirical strength of the minimalist program, particularly in its ability to provide a robust framework for linguistic analysis. They appreciate the book's focus on economy conditions and its contribution to the field. However, they also point out that some of the arguments could be further developed, suggesting that the minimalist program is still a work in progress. The reviewer's overall impression is positive, acknowledging the book's significance while also noting areas that could benefit from more exploration.

Quick quotes

    This however would be an empirical argument against the notion, not a conceptual one.

    An analysis that relies on economy conditions.

    The minimalist program is still a work in progress.

Goodreads · 1995-01-01
insightful 4.00

The book is a significant contribution to linguistic theory, situating it within the broader context of cognitive sciences. It offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of minimalist principles.

This collection of essays provides a deep dive into the minimalist program, a framework that aims to simplify linguistic theory by focusing on the most fundamental principles. The reviewer appreciates how the book integrates linguistic theory with cognitive sciences, making it a valuable read for those interested in the intersection of these fields. The essays are thought-provoking and encourage readers to reflect on the foundations of linguistics. However, the reviewer notes that some of the concepts may be challenging for those not well-versed in the subject.

Quick quotes

    A classic work that situates linguistic theory in the broader cognitive sciences.

    The minimalist program offers a significant contribution to the generative tradition in linguistics.

    This book will encourage graduate students and researchers in linguistics to reflect on the foundations of their discipline.

ResearchGate · 1995-01-01
foundational 4.50

The book is celebrated as a foundational work in linguistics, offering a significant contribution to the generative tradition. The reviewer highlights its enduring impact on the field.

This review emphasizes the enduring relevance of Chomsky's work, noting its foundational role in the generative tradition of linguistics. The reviewer appreciates the book's clarity and depth, making it a valuable resource for both students and researchers. They highlight how the minimalist program has influenced subsequent research and continues to be a reference point in the field. The reviewer's enthusiasm for the book is evident, praising its comprehensive approach and the insights it provides.

Quick quotes

    In his foundational book, The Minimalist Program, published in 1995, Noam Chomsky offered a significant contribution to the generative tradition in linguistics.

    A classic work that situates linguistic theory in the broader cognitive sciences.

    The minimalist program has influenced subsequent research and continues to be a reference point in the field.

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