原则与参数理论的科学论述——《当代句法学导论》评介

Scientific elaboration on theory of principle and parameter——Commentary on Introduction to Contemporary syntax

句法学是语言学研究的核心分支之一。在乔姆斯基的句法理论中,管辖与约束理论的原则与参数系统可以说是迄今为止解释力最强,最成熟的形式句法理论,其重要性不言而喻。《当代句法学导论》围绕句法理论的精髓—原则与参数理论进行了科学而独到的论述,全面介绍了其子理论组件——题元理论,X-阶标理论,格理论,约束理论,控制理论,管辖理论,界限理论等。本文在对该书内容进行简单的介绍之后,主要从该书的内容的安排,论述方法以及语言表述等方面分析了其鲜明的特点。并指出该书是经典的句法学入门教材,对从事语言研究或学习的教师和学生具有很强的理论指导意义和实用价值。

It is true that syntax is one of the core branches in the study of linguistics. There is no doubt that among Chomsky＇s syntax theories, Principles and Parameters Theory has been the most mature formal linguistics theory which has the largest explanatory power. Thus, it is of great importance. An Introduction to Syntax written by Wen Binli provides a comprehensive and systematic introduction of Principles and Parameters Theory, including them theory, X-bar theory, case theory, government ＆ binding theory, control theory, and so on. This paper starts with the brief introduction of the main idea of the book, and proceeds to discuss the distinguishing features in its arrangement, explanation and illustration, as well as expression. Finally the paper ends in arguing that it is the fight book for beginners in learning syntax which can be of great guidance and practical values to both teachers and students in studying syntax.