Linguistics

Learn the basics of the study of language sounds.

This book provides an ideal introduction to those new to the subject of linguistics. It assumes no prior knowledge and is a refreshingly practical and clear guide to an often complex subject many find daunting. The book covers all the core topics of linguistic study, with chapters discussing strategies for studying phonology, syntax and semantics, as well as branches of linguistics such as sociolinguistics, stylistics and psycholinguistics.

Elementary set theory accustoms the students to mathematical abstraction, includes the standard constructions of relations, functions, and orderings, and leads to a discussion of the various orders of infinity. The material on logic covers not only the standard statement logic and first-order predicate logic but includes an introduction to formal systems, axiomatization, and model theory.

“The author’s call to action- that it is incumbent on linguists to work towards societal change- is one we should heed. Hercula encourages linguists to refocus the introductory linguistics course to not only educate about how language works and how linguists study it, but to work more deeply to change attitudes towards stigmatized language varieties by in-depth investigation of those varieties, ensuring that everyone goes away with enduring understanding and a desire to change the world.” –Kristin Denham, Western Washington University, USA