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On Coseriu’s legacy

Introduction

On coseriu’s legacy. Explore Eugenio Coseriu's influential theory of language and linguistics, analyzing consciousness, functional explanation, and his humanistic perspective. Contrasts with physicalism.

Abstract

This article examines Eugenio Coseriu’s overall theory of language and linguistics, based on his 1974 book Synchronie, Diachronie und Geschichte (originally in Spanish, in 1958). The topics that are singled out for analysis include the role of consciousness and the nature of functional explanation. Coseriu’s ideas are shown to have strong affinities with those of Hermann Paul and William Dwight Whitney. His humanistic conception of linguistics is vindicated vis-à-vis its rivals, i.e. physicalism and Darwinism.

Review

This article promises a timely and insightful re-examination of Eugenio Coseriu’s profound theory of language and linguistics, grounded in his foundational 1974 work, *Synchronie, Diachronie und Geschichte*. The author judiciously selects key theoretical dimensions, focusing on the role of consciousness and the nature of functional explanation, which are central to understanding Coseriu's distinctive approach. By drawing explicit connections between Coseriu's ideas and those of historical figures such as Hermann Paul and William Dwight Whitney, the article positions itself as a valuable contribution to the intellectual history of linguistics, offering a nuanced perspective on the lineage of linguistic thought. A significant strength outlined in the abstract is the article's commitment to defending Coseriu's humanistic conception of linguistics. This vindication, set against the backdrop of rival paradigms like physicalism and Darwinism, suggests a robust engagement with the philosophical underpinnings of linguistic theory. Such an approach is particularly pertinent in contemporary discussions, where reductionist tendencies often prevail. The exploration of these complex theoretical debates, anchored in a careful reading of Coseriu, will likely appeal to scholars interested in the philosophy of language, the history of linguistics, and those seeking to articulate a more holistic understanding of human language. For the article to fully realize its potential, a complete review would certainly delve into the specific arguments deployed to "vindicate" Coseriu’s humanism against physicalism and Darwinism, ensuring that these competing perspectives are treated with sufficient nuance rather than as mere strawmen. Furthermore, the detailed development of the "strong affinities" with Paul and Whitney will be crucial; the nature of these connections—whether direct influence, shared intellectual climate, or conceptual parallels—will need to be thoroughly explicated. Finally, given the existing body of scholarship on Coseriu, the article's specific innovative contribution or novel interpretative framework, beyond a general overview, would be a critical aspect for the full paper to articulate clearly.

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