-
Noam Chomsky Born 1928
Avram Noam Chomsky is an American professor and public intellectual known for his work in linguistics, political activism, and social criticism. Sometimes called "the father of modern linguistics". Considered the most cited living author, Chomsky has written more than 150 books. -
1949: Publication of "Review of Verbal Behavior"
Noam Chomsky's critique of B.F. Skinner's behaviorist theory "Review of Verbal Behavior," marked a pivotal moment in linguistics. Chomsky argued that behaviorist theories couldn't adequately explain the complexity of language acquisition and usage. This critique laid the foundation for Chomsky's groundbreaking theory of universal grammar. "A Review of B. F. Skinner's Verbal Behavior" in Language, 35, No. 1 (1959), 26 58. -
1957: "Syntactic Structures" and Transformational-Generative Grammar
Chomsky's book "Syntactic Structures" introduced the concept of transformational-generative grammar. This theory revolutionized the study of linguistics by introducing the ideas of governing the transformation of deep structures into surface structures, providing a more sophisticated understanding of language syntax. Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. "Syntactic Structures". Encyclopedia Britannica, 21 Apr. 2023, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Syntactic-Structures. -
1967: Anti-Vietnam War Activism and Civil Disobedience
During the late 1960s, Chomsky became a major critic of the Vietnam War. His activism extended beyond the classroom as an advocate for civil disobedience. He was arrested during a protest at the Pentagon in 1967. This period marked Chomsky's commitment to social and political activism, which he continues today. Two interviews from Noam Chomsky discussing the Vietnam War.
https://youtu.be/rujpY2veyuk?si=8cVFMAfAuFbZCsah -
1988: Cognitive Science and "Language and Problems of Knowledge"
Chomsky's book "Language and Problems of Knowledge," was published in 1988. Chomsky explored and related topics of language, mind, and epistemology. This work highlighted his interdisciplinary approach and solidified his influence in cognitive science and philosophy.