1. Emphasis on Observable Behavior:
Bloomfield rejected the study of mental processes and focused on observable behavior. He argued that linguistics should only deal with the "stimulus" (the linguistic input) and the "response" (the linguistic output). This focus on behaviorism influenced the development of structuralist linguistics, which aimed to analyze language based on its observable patterns.
2. Development of the "Taxonomic" Approach:
Bloomfield advocated for a taxonomic approach to language analysis, breaking down language into its constituent parts (phonemes, morphemes, etc.) and describing their relationships. This approach emphasized the objective and systematic analysis of language, aiming to create a "scientific" framework for understanding language.
3. Development of a Formal System:
Bloomfield developed a formal system for describing language, using precise terminology and symbols. This system aimed to achieve objectivity and eliminate ambiguity in linguistic analysis. While his system was later criticized for being overly rigid and neglecting meaning, it provided a foundation for subsequent linguistic analysis.
4. Focus on Language as a System:
Bloomfield emphasized the importance of analyzing language as a system, where elements are interconnected and influenced by their context. He argued that the meaning of a linguistic unit is determined by its relationship to other units within the system.
5. Influence on Subsequent Linguists:
Bloomfield's work heavily influenced subsequent generations of linguists, particularly in the development of structuralism. His emphasis on objectivity, scientific methodology, and systematic analysis provided a framework for the study of language for many years.
Criticism of Bloomfield's Work:
Despite his significant contributions, Bloomfield's work has also been criticized for its:
* Overemphasis on behaviorism: Critics argue that language is more than just a set of stimulus-response patterns, and that mental processes play a crucial role in language production and comprehension.
* Neglect of meaning: Bloomfield's focus on formal structures led to a neglect of meaning, which some argue is essential for a comprehensive understanding of language.
* Lack of flexibility: His rigid system for analyzing language was criticized for being too inflexible and unable to account for the complexities of natural language.
Legacy:
While Bloomfield's work has been challenged and revised over time, his contributions remain significant. His emphasis on objectivity and scientific methodology helped to establish linguistics as a rigorous academic discipline. His contributions also laid the groundwork for subsequent developments in linguistics, such as generative grammar and cognitive linguistics.
In conclusion, Leonard Bloomfield was a pivotal figure in American linguistics, who contributed significantly to the development of structuralist linguistics through his focus on observable behavior, formal analysis, and the systematicity of language. However, his work has also been criticized for its limitations, particularly its neglect of meaning and rigid approach to analysis. Despite these criticisms, Bloomfield's legacy continues to influence the field of linguistics today.