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Specifiers and subject positions
Abstract
In this dissertation I argue that the explanatory power of the A/A-bar distinction, as it is traditionally used within the framework of Parameter Setting Theory Chomsky (1981 and ff.) is much weaker than has previously been assumed. The distinction is particularly deficient in providing a typology for types of movement and types of position. I advocate a return to a definition of Argument positions as $\theta$-positions (Chomsky, 1981). I argue that an approach incorporating the Lexical Clause Hypothesis, with a highly articulated IP structure will enable us to make this move and I suggest that 'A Movement' and 'A Binding' be redefined using notions from Case and $\theta$-theories. In Chapter One, I show that the determination of what counts as an 'A' or an 'A-bar' position is made vastly more complex by the recent work on the articulation of IP structure (Pollock, 1989; Chomsky, 1991) which favours the introduction of numerous functional projections. In Chapter Two I argue that the proposals for a highly articulated IP structure are well grounded. Chapter Three begins with a discussion of the Lexical Clause Hypothesis and the position of subjects. Following on from this, I propose a redefinition of NP Movement based on Case Theory. In Chapter Four I discuss Binding Theory and argue that its proper application need not make references to the term 'A Position'. Following on from this I propose a new approach to Wh Movement and I argue that (spec,AgrP), traditionally seen as an 'A Position', can host operators. Chapter Five compares the situation in English, with that in Modern Standard Arabic, which I argue is a language in which subjects can stay within the lexical projection they originate in.
Subject Area
Linguistics
Recommended Citation
Plunkett, Bernadette, "Specifiers and subject positions" (1993). Doctoral Dissertations Available from Proquest. AAI9316705.
https://scholarworks.umass.edu/dissertations/AAI9316705