THE MACRO-COMPARATIVE JOURNAL
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About THE MACRO-COMPARATIVE JOURNAL
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As the title suggests, THE MACRO-COMPARATIVE JOURNAL will primarily focus on the
genetic relationships that (may) exist between past and present languages. But
articles pertaining to other fields like genetics, anthropology, ethnology or
comparative mythology may also be considered for publication provided that they
have clear connections with linguistics and macro-comparative issues. Generally
speaking any submission that contributes to the understanding and knowledge of
mankind's linguistic (pre-)history can be considered adequate.
Among other topics the scope of the Journal includes (1)
theoretical issues of methodology and feasibility, (2) the discussion and
documentation of proved and potential genetic relationships, (3) concrete
contributions to the comparison and reconstruction of the world's numerous
language families, (4) reference articles dealing with the historical phonology
of languages or language families, (5) the study of loanwords and substrates,
and (6) historiographical accounts of language families.
This is the first online free-access Journal and it aims
at stimulating interest and offering visibility for the field. Thanks to being
online, there is little limitation to what is possible. Regular issues of the
Journal will appear once a year, in addition to a Thematic Issue once a year. A
printed version of the Journal will appear every five years.
Considering the difficulty and controversial nature of
many macro-comparative issues the Journal aims at promoting elaborate and
learned assessments of competing hypotheses rather than over-assertive and
propagandizing points of view. For that matter submissions which accept the premise
that more than one solution is often possible will be preferred. This premise
will not be considered a weakness but rather a strength and an indication of a
really mature command of the field. Of course submissions dealing with a clear
and linear topic are welcome as well. Issues need not be made artificially
complicated. Besides submissions should preferably avoid metalinguistic
discourse and idiosyncratic frameworks.
Depending on their nature and number, submissions may be
proposed for inclusion in thematic issues created on purpose.
Contributors are kindly invited to read the Submission Guidelines.
(Typical) CONTENTS
EDITORIAL NEWS
ARTICLES
COMMENTS
REPLIES
REVIEWS
REFERENCE MATERIALS
DISCUSSIONS
FREE PAPERS
MISCELLANEOUS