Derivations and Constraints in Phonology

Since the 1960s phonological theory has countenanced two levels of representation, underlying and surface form, linked by a multi-staged derivation. This model is now being challenged by approaches, such as Optimality Theory, which substitute surface constraints for rules and derivations. If accepted, this shift would amount to a major revolution in the field. In this volume, a team of leading specialists addresses the issue, specifically focusing on the comparison and evaluation of the two alternatives.