Treffer: Diffusion Processes in Language: Prediction and Planning.

A unifying methodology of diffusion studies is presented treating geographical, sociological, and historical phonomena of language within the same framework. Patterns of linguistic innovation and the social and psychological motivations for such a change, both in the individual and in society, are summarized in their functions as predictors of language diffusion. The theory and method of language diffusion examined in this multi-dimensional, interdisciplinary framework provide the means for a quantitative analysis and simulation with a view of forging precise methods of language planning. The manner in which an individual adopts an innovation is precisely delineated on Rogers' model (1962). Hagerstrand's matrix of social communication (1962) provides the basis for the discussion of the geographical aspects of language diffusion. These and other on-going studies should soon produce a model for prediction of language diffusion that in turn will be effective in planning language policies. (PMJ)