In On Nature and Language, Noam Chomsky develops his thinking on the relation between language, mind, and brain, integrating current research in linguistics into the burgeoning field of neuroscience.

Following a lucid introduction is a penetrating interview with Chomsky, in which he provides the clearest and most elegant introduction to current theory available. It makes his Minimalist Program accessible to all. The volume concludes with an essay on the role of intellectuals in society and government.

A significant landmark in the development of linguistic theory, On Nature and Language will be welcomed by students and researchers in theoretical linguistics, neurolinguistics, cognitive science and politics, as well as anyone interested in the development of Chomsky's thought.

"The varied collection of essays offers a unique introduction to the minimalist approach to linguistics, which views language as optimally enabling the brain to express thought....Recommended for academic libraries that support linguistics programs." Library Journal

An essay on the role of intellectuals in society and government. Provides a significant landmark in the development of linguistic theory.

In On Nature and Language Noam Chomsky develops his thinking on the relation between language, mind, and brain, integrating current research in linguistics into the burgeoning field of neuroscience. Following a lucid introduction is a penetrating interview with Chomsky, in which he provides the clearest and most elegant introduction to current theory available. It makes his Minimalist Program accessible to all. The volume concludes with an essay on the role of intellectuals in society and government. A significant landmark in the development of linguistic theory, On Nature and Language will be welcomed by students and researchers in theoretical linguistics, neurolinguistics, cognitive science and politics, as well as anyone interested in the development of Chomsky's thought.Noam Chomsky is Professor of Linguistics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Chomsky has written and lectured extensively on philosophy, intellectual history, and international affairs. His works include The Architecture of Language, Aspects of the Theory of Syntax; Cartesian Linguistics; Language and Mind; American Power and the New Mandarins; At War with Asia; For Reasons of State; Peace in the Middle East? Reflections on Language; Rules and Representations; The Culture of Terrorism; Rethinking Camelot; JFKm the Vietnam War and US Political Culture; World Orders, Old and New and The Common Good.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 191-199) and index.

Noam Chomsky is Professor of Linguistics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Chomsky has written and lectured extensively on philosophy, intellectual history, and international affairs. His works include The Architecture of Language, Aspects of the Theory of Syntax; Cartesian Linguistics; Language and Mind; American Power and the New Mandarins; Peace in the Middle East? Reflections on Language; Rethinking Camelot; World Orders, Old and New; and The Common Good.

1 Editors' introduction: some concepts and issues in linguistic theory 1
2 Perspectives on language and mind 45
3 Language and the brain 61
4 An interview on minimalism 92
5 The secular priesthood and the perils of democracy 162
Notes 187
References to chapters 1-4 191
Index 201