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Full-Text Articles in Social and Behavioral Sciences
Front Speed Of Language Replacement, Joaquim Fort, Joaquim Pérez-Losada
Front Speed Of Language Replacement, Joaquim Fort, Joaquim Pérez-Losada
Human Biology Open Access Pre-Prints
We use two coupled equations to analyze the space-time dynamics of two interacting languages. Firstly, we introduce a cohabitation model, which is more appropriate for human populations than classical (non-cohabitation) models. Secondly, using numerical simulations we nd the front speed of a new language spreading into a region where another language was previously used. Thirdly, for a special case we derive an analytical formula that makes it possible to check the validity of our numerical simulations. Finally, as an example, we nd that the observed front speed for the spread of the English language into Wales in the period 1961-1981 …
Changing Language, Remaining Pygmy, Serge Bahuchet
Changing Language, Remaining Pygmy, Serge Bahuchet
Human Biology Open Access Pre-Prints
In this article I am illustrating the linguistic diversity of African Pygmy populations in order to better address their anthropological diversity and history. I am also introducing a new method, based on the analysis of specialized vocabulary, to reconstruct the substratum of some languages they speak. I show that Pygmy identity is not based on their languages, which have often been borrowed from neighboring non-Pygmy farmer communities with whom each Pygmy group is linked. Understanding the nature of this partnership, quite variable in history, is essential to address Pygmy languages, identity and history. Finally, I show that only a multidisciplinary …