Quantifying Linguistic Divergence: Methodological Evolutions and Case Studies in Lexicostatistics

Abstract

Lexicostatistics acts as a strong interdisciplinary tool, bringing together the application of statistics and mathematics to language evolution. This paper critically assesses the traditional Swadesh method, highlighting its major steps in the lexicostatistical procedure. It is apparent that, although each step in the traditional method is subject to methodological pitfalls, which greatly impede its accuracy, recent improvements in the method have greatly enhanced its accuracy in glottochronology. From the assessment of the application of lexicostatistics in history, it is apparent that most studies focus on Indo-European languages. This is in line with most linguistic theories, although some aspects in the studies are unique and divergent from conventional theories. This paper, therefore, concludes that lexicostatistics is an emerging field with immense potential for growth, especially through the application of modern technologies like computer intelligence. By extending its scope to other languages, lexicostatistics is likely to give greater and accurate insights into language evolution. This work should be a good guide in the area of Lexicostatistics.