In:Constraints in Discourse
Edited by Anton Benz and Peter Kühnlein
[Pragmatics & Beyond New Series 172] 2008
► pp. 141–158
7. Dependency precedes independence: Online evidence from discourse processing
Published online: 10 April 2008
https://doi.org/10.1075/pbns.172.07bur
https://doi.org/10.1075/pbns.172.07bur
This paper investigates the integration of definite determiner phrases (DPs) as a function of their contextual salience, which is reflected in the degree of dependency on prior information. DPs depend on previously established discourse referents or introduce a new, independent discourse referent. This paper presents a formal model that explains how discourse referents are represented in the language system and what kind of mechanisms are implemented during DP interpretation. Experimental data from an event-related potential study are discussed that demonstrate how definite DPs are integrated in real-time processing. The data provide evidence for two distinct mechanisms – Specify R and Establish Independent File Card – and substantiate a model that includes various processes and constraints at the level of discourse representation.
