Question

Which of the following kinds of evidence are offered in support of an innateness view of the human language ability?

• A. All humans, no matter how primitive their societies, have the capacity for language.
• B. Children learn the language(s) in their environment without explicit instruction.
• C. Speakers of all languages are capable of producing and understanding an infinite number of sentences.
• D. All languages and their grammars change through time.

Hint:

Innateness arguments often rely on universality, rapid acquisition, and infinite productivity of language.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, B, C

Step 1: Universality of language.
The fact that all human societies possess language supports the idea of an innate biological capacity, validating option (A).
Step 2: Language acquisition by children.
Children acquire language naturally without formal instruction, despite limited input, which is a key argument for innateness. This supports option (B).
Step 3: Infinite productivity.
The ability to generate and understand infinitely many sentences from finite means indicates an innate grammatical system, confirming option (C).
Step 4: Eliminate incorrect option.
Language change over time is a historical and social fact and does not directly support innateness. Hence, option (D) is incorrect.
Step 5: Conclusion.
The correct answers are (A), (B), and (C).