Dependency from Biology to Linguistics

Abstract

This paper explores how dependencies contribute to the explanation of the evolution of the faculty of language and language diversity. Recently language-related genes such as FOXP2, CNTNAP2, ROBO1, ROBO2 among others have been found to contribute to human language. Furthermore, it is suggested that language diversity is attributed to genes like ASPM and Microcephalin. We now understand that genes not only play important roles to acquire the faculty of language but also involve in language diversity. We also consider the operation called Merge is vital in core syntax, and argue that recursive application of Merge to hierarchical structures.