Control Theory

In generative syntax, control theory is a would-be theory that accounts for the referential properties of PRO.

Examples

The fact that John is the understood subject of to do the dishes in (i) but not in (ii) (Susan is the understood subject of to do the dishes in (ii)) is to be accounted for by control theory.

(i) Johni promised Susan_j [PRO_i to do the dishes]

(ii) Johni ordered Susan_j [PRO_j to do the dishes]

Comments

Sometimes the term 'control theory' is used for whatever explains those aspects of the behavior of PRO which are not captured by other theories (such as binding theory or the theory of predication).

See also

• control
• control shift

Link

Utrecht Lexicon of Linguistics

References

• Bouchard, D. 1984. On the content of empty categories. Dordrecht: Foris.
• Chomsky, Noam A. 1981. Lectures on Government and Binding. Dordrecht:Foris.
• van Haaften, T. 1991. De interpretatie van verzwegen subjecten. Unpublished diss. Amsterdam: Vrije Universiteit.
• Koster, J. 1987. Domains and dynasties: The radical autonomy of syntax. Dordrecht: Foris.
• Manzini, R. 1983. On control and control theory. Linguistic Inquiry 14-3, pages.
• Williams, E. 1980. Predication. Linguistic Inquiry 11, 203-238.