Some principles of linguistic methodology

485Citations
Citations of this article
304Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.
Get full text

Abstract

Current difficulties in achieving intersubjective agreement in linguistics require attention to principles of methodology which consider sources of error and ways to eliminate them. The methodological assumptions and practices of various branches of linguistics are considered from the standpoint of the types of data gathered: texts, elicitations, intuitions and observations. Observations of the vernacular provide the most systematic basis for linguistic theory, but have been the most difficult kinds of data for linguists to obtain; techniques for solving the problems encountered are outlined. Intersubjective agreement is best reached by convergence of several kinds of data with complementary sources of error. © 1972, Cambridge University Press. All rights reserved.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Labov, W. (1972). Some principles of linguistic methodology. Language in Society, 1(1), 97–120. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0047404500006576

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free