Re: THEORY: phonemes and Optimality Theory tutorial

Marcus:
> Carlos Thompson wrote:
>
> > > FWIW, I would analyse the above system along the following lines:
> > > * Primitives of segmental content are A, I, U.
> > > * E and O are made by simultaneous A+I and A+U.
> > > * The ability of A to combine with I/U is a property only of
> > >   stressed syllables. ["Tier separation"]
> >
> >Well, as a non-linguist I could analize this as
> >   * Primitives: /a/, /e/, /i/, /o/, /u/
> >   * In unstressed syllables there are neutralization and /i/ and /e/
> >will both be realized as [i] and /o/ and /u/ as [u].  Wouldn't this be
> >a correct approximation.
>
> As a linguist but non-phonologist,
as am I, in the sense that you mean

> I would tend towards your analysis as well. I find it more intuitive and
> realistic than saying E and O come from A+I and A+U. And's proposal is
> certainly possible, but I see no reason for such a reductionist approach.
One can't really argue with what you find more intuitive and realistic.
But does not all rationalistic theorizing strive for a reductionist
approach, in the sense of one that, other things being equal, is maximally
simple? Or by 'reductionist' do you mean 'simplifying to the extent of
ignoring significant differences and contrasts'?

--And.