The Quantification of Functional Load: A Linguistic Problem.

Charles Francis Hockett

ResearchPublished 1966

An approach to the quantification of the functional load carried by the sounds of a language in distinguishing one utterance from another. By applying algebraic grammar and matroid lattice theory, criteria are obtained which are satisfied by three measures of entropy used by Shannon in information theory (measured in binits, in shannons, and as relative entropy). The method can be used to measure the work of phonemes, allophones, or components, and should therefore be useful regardless of the outcome of present disputes in the field of phonology. Subjective impressions suggest that there is a balance point in speech between the force of least effort, making for lowest redundancy, and the practical need to be understood, pressing for lower entropy. Research is suggested to test this hypothesis and discover whether it applies equally to all speech communities. An approach to the quantification of the functional load carried by the sounds of a language in distinguishing one utterance from another. By applying algebraic grammar and matroid lattice theory, criteria are obtained which are satisfied by three measures of entropy used by Shannon in information theory (measured in binits, in shannons, and as relative entropy). The method can be used to measure the work of phonemes, allophones, or components, and should therefore be useful regardless of the outcome of present disputes in the field of phonology. Subjective impressions suggest that there is a balance point in speech between the force of least effort, making for lowest redundancy, and the practical need to be understood, pressing for lower entropy. Research is suggested to test this hypothesis and discover whether it applies equally to all speech communities. 33 pp

Document Details

  • Copyright: RAND Corporation
  • Availability: Web Only
  • Year: 1966
  • Pages: 33
  • Document Number: RM-5168-PR

Citation

Chicago Manual of Style

Hockett, Charles Francis, The Quantification of Functional Load: A Linguistic Problem. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1966. https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_memoranda/RM5168.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.