(I got 99 problems but evidence ain’t one)

In this class, two syntacticians with distinct approaches to data collection join forces to teach you how to get from a linguistic problem to theory formation. Along the way, we discuss the following topics:

Key concepts of philosophy of science, how linguistics classifies as a science and what makes a theory falsifiable. We will explore the work of Popper, Kuhn, and Lakatos and consider how their ideas apply to linguistic research. In particular, we will discuss to what extent linguistic methodology can be compared to that of the “hard” sciences, focusing on questions such as the nature of linguistic data, whether and how our claims are falsifiable, and what counts as empirical evidence in the field.

Different sources of linguistic evidence and their uses. We will examine various sources of linguistic data and discuss why different research questions require different methodological approaches.

Scientific methodology: from data to formal theory. We will break down how to move from empirical observation to formal analysis, working through processes such as induction, deduction and prediction, hypothesis formation, and hypothesis testing.

The empirical foundation of formal linguistic theory and its current state. We will critically evaluate whether formal linguistics is facing an empirical crisis and dissect the arguments giving rise to this perspective. By examining case studies, we will discuss the prospects and limitations of the recent trend towards experimentalism.

The class is particularly suited for intermediate and advanced students who have already conducted some linguistic research of their own (e.g., seminar papers or BA/MA theses), though less experienced students will also benefit from it. While the main focus will be on syntactic research, students from other subfields will likewise be able to follow the course and profit from it.

Level: intermediate