The Logic of Cognate Recognition in Historical Linguistics

Martin Kay

ResearchPublished 1964

A formalization of one of the steps in the comparative method in historical linguistics; i.e., recognition of modern derivatives of prehistoric phonemes. The theory assumes that words of a hypothetical prehistoric language should be constructed so as to minimize the total number of phonemes in the language and the total number of statements needed to account for the forms of modern words. It provides an algorithm for a computer program, but even small increases in the amount of data to be considered exhaust present computer techniques. The theory nevertheless provides a basis for more efficient heuristic procedures.

Document Details

  • Copyright: RAND Corporation
  • Availability: Web Only
  • Year: 1964
  • Pages: 30
  • Document Number: RM-4224-PR

Citation

Chicago Manual of Style

Kay, Martin, The Logic of Cognate Recognition in Historical Linguistics. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1964. https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_memoranda/RM4224.html.
BibTeX RIS

This publication is part of the RAND research memorandum series. The research memorandum series, a product of RAND from 1948 to 1973, included working papers meant to report current results of RAND research to appropriate audiences.

This document and trademark(s) contained herein are protected by law. This representation of RAND intellectual property is provided for noncommercial use only. Unauthorized posting of this publication online is prohibited; linking directly to this product page is encouraged. Permission is required from RAND to reproduce, or reuse in another form, any of its research documents for commercial purposes. For information on reprint and reuse permissions, please visit www.rand.org/pubs/permissions.

RAND is a nonprofit institution that helps improve policy and decisionmaking through research and analysis. RAND's publications do not necessarily reflect the opinions of its research clients and sponsors.