Nativist theory of language development ?

The nativist theory of language development posits that humans are born with an innate capacity for language acquisition. This theory suggests that the ability to learn language is genetically predetermined and that all humans have a universal grammar that allows them to understand and produce language.

One of the key proponents of the nativist theory is Noam Chomsky, who argued that children are born with a language acquisition device (LAD) that enables them to learn language rapidly and effortlessly. According to Chomsky, this innate ability to acquire language is what sets humans apart from other animals.

The nativist theory also emphasizes the role of universal grammar, which refers to the underlying principles and structures that are common to all languages. This theory suggests that children are able to learn language so quickly because they are already equipped with the basic rules and structures of language.

Overall, the nativist theory of language development highlights the importance of innate biological factors in shaping the way humans acquire and use language.