Chomsky: A Guide for the Perplexed

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Noam Chomsky is one of the most influential thinkers of the twentieth-century. His work in linguistics, philosophy and political theory has spanned six decades, and has been met with critical acclaim and controversy in equal measure. This book is an introduction to Chomsky's theoretical writings, but also a critical engagement with his work. Chomsky: A Guide for the Perplexed covers every aspect of Chomsky's thought, from transformational grammar to political dissent. John Collins shows how Chomsky's linguistic theory, philosophy and politics are all connected, and by so doing helps the reader to understand this key thinker's massive contribution to twentieth-century thought. The book examines: the different faces of Noam Chomsky; transformational grammar; Chomsky's opposition to behaviorism; government and binding theory; the minimalist program; and libertarian socialism.

Reviews

Mention -Book News, November 2008
Briefly reviewed in the Year's work in English Studies journal, vol 89, No. 1 This work requires a good familiarity with Chomsky's own writings and the ability to keep focused when reading philosophical discourse'

Author Bio

John Collins is Lecturer in the School of Philosophy, University of East Anglia, UK.