Neutral evolution: A null model for language dynamics

Abstract

We review the task of aligning simple models for language dynamics with relevant empirical data, motivated by the fact that this is rarely attempted in practice despite an abundance of abstract models. We propose that one way to meet this challenge is through the careful construction of null models. We argue in particular that rejection of a null model must have important consequences for theories about language dynamics if modelling is truly to be worthwhile. Our main claim is that the stochastic process of neutral evolution (also known as genetic drift or random copying) is a viable null model for language dynamics. We survey empirical evidence in favour and against neutral evolution as a mechanism behind historical language changes, highlighting the theoretical implications in each case.

20 pages, 2 figures. To appear in a special issue of ACS - Advances in Complex Systems on language dynamics

References in corpus (3)

• Statistical physics of social dynamics
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Cited by in corpus (6)

• Evolutionary forces in language change
• Spatial evolution of human dialects
• Challenges in detecting evolutionary forces in language change using diachronic corpora
• Analytical and numerical treatment of continuous ageing in the voter model
• Phenomenology and dynamics of competitive ecosystems beyond the niche-neutral regimes
• Replicator-mutator dynamics of linguistic convergence and divergence