Image for Gesture and the Dynamic Dimension of Language : Essays in honor of David McNeill

Gesture and the Dynamic Dimension of Language : Essays in honor of David McNeill

Part of the Gesture Studies series
See all formats and editions

Each of the 21 chapters in this volume reflects a view of language as a dynamic phenomenon with emergent structure, and in each, gesture is approached as part of language, not an adjunct to it.

In this, all of the authors have been influenced by David McNeill's methods for studying natural discourse and by his theory of the human capacity for language.

The introductory chapter by Adam Kendon contextualizes McNeill's research paradigm within a history of earlier gesture studies.

Chapters in the first section, Language and Cognition, emphasize what McNeill refers to as the intrapersonal plane.

Many of the chapters adduce evidence for McNeill's claim that gestures can serve as a window onto the speaker's mind.

Chapters in the second section, Environmental Context and Sociality, emphasize the interpersonal plane and exemplify McNeill's focus on how moment-to-moment language use is determined by contextual factors.

The final section of the volume, Atypical Minds and Bodies, concerns lessons to be learned from studies of aphasic patients, autistic children, and artificial humans.

Read More
Available
£83.00
Add Line Customisation
Stock expected 28/02/2024
Add to List
Product Details
John Benjamins Publishing Co
9027228418 / 9789027228413
Hardback
808.5
06/06/2007
Netherlands
328 pages
164 x 245 mm, 750 grams
Professional & Vocational Learn More