Question

The optimality theory suggests that _____.

animal behavior is based on nature

animal behavior is based on nurturing

beneficial behaviors are passed on for generations

only a mutation can prevent weak behaviors from being passed on for generations

Answer 1

Optimality Theory (frequently abbreviated OT; second word normally capitalized by convention) is a linguistic model proposing that the observed forms of language arise from the interaction between conflicting constraints. OT differs from other approaches to phonological analysis, such as autosegmental phonology and linear phonology (SPE), which typically use rules rather than constraints. OT models grammars as systems that provide mappings from inputs to outputs; typically, the inputs are conceived of as underlying representations, and the outputs as their surface realizations.