An Introduction to Relational Network Theory

GARCÍA, ADOLFO M.

Cardiff

Otro; Lecture Series at Cardiff Univresity; 2018

Cardiff University

In this presentation, I will offer a summary overview of Relational Network Theory (RNT), a neurocognitive model of language compatible with systemic-functional tenets. First, the evolution of RNT will be traced from the 1960s to the present, with emphasis on its systemic and stratificational origins. Second, the theory?s main notational devices will be described and shown to account for the main types of relations found in a linguistic network. Third, reference will be made to a collection of case studies showing descriptive applications of RNT, covering varied linguistic phenomena in different languages (phonological patterns in Russian, morphological systems in Polish and Spanish, pronouns and nouns in English discourse, speech errors in English and Polish). To conclude, the strengths and limitations of the theory will be discussed against the backdrop of contemporary systemic-functional linguistics.