Re: Aspect Specifics

Randy Leedy (RLEEDY@wpo.bju.edu)
Mon, 14 Apr 1997 17:38:06 -0400

S. M. Baugh wrote:

>>>P.S. I remember my linguistics teacher in college STRESSING that
linguistics was a "science"--it seems that humanities are supposed to
have an inferiority complex these days. Well, I equate language to a
painting. One can analyze the pigments and canvas "scientifically"
all you want, and learn quite a bit, but it does not necessarily lead
to understanding of what the painting itself means. That is an *art*
as well as a science.
<<<

I've been half following this intriguing discussion, but my poor
little brain just can't grasp it all and keep up with heavy daily
responsibilities. I admire those who can. I've got to jump in and say
just a word at this point, though; a hearty "Amen!" (I'm a
Fundamentalist, remember?)

I won't enlarge; I said my piece on this point some time back when
Jonathan, Don, and Mari were at work on the same topic. In all this
discussion, interesting and even helpful as it is, my view hasn't
changed that linguistic expression includes an artistic dimension
that will never submit itself to the scientific method with its
falsifiable hypotheses and mechanistic testing. Still, of course,
there *is* a scientific dimension to be treated, so I'll continue
listening in as the linguists go at it.

****************************
In Love to God and Neighbor,
Randy Leedy
Bob Jones University
Greenville, SC
RLeedy@wpo.bju.edu
****************************