Something Elsefor the Binding Theory

Abstract

Abstract This chapter examines another binding phenomenon outside the treatment of ‘core’ binding in MGG: the behaviour of the obviative element else in English and related referentially dependent elements. The goal is to clarify the nature of the referential dependency that else expresses as well as the proper formulation of this dependency within the grammar. A number of alternative analyses are explored. It is shown that the best one on empirical grounds is one that conforms to the Simpler Syntax Hypothesis, in that no covert syntactic structure is associated with else. Evidence is uncovered that casts doubt on the generality, and hence theoretical usefulness of a covert syntactic level of Logical Form in the sense of MGG, again providing support for Simpler Syntax.

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