Optimality Theory: Constraint Interaction in Generative Grammar

This work develops a conception of grammar in which optimality with respect to a set of constraints defines well-formedness. The argument begins with a brief assessment of the promise of optimization-based approaches, focusing on issues of explanation from principle. The general lay-out of Optimality Theory is sketched, including the core notions of ranking & violability and the emphasis on universality in the constraint set.Part I shows how the ideas play out over a variety of phenomena and generalization patterns. The key distinction between Markedness and Faithfulness constraints is introduced. The analytical focus is on empirical phenomena ranging from epenthesis to infixation to a variety of…