Conclusion

Abstract

This chapter concludes the book. The distinguishing features of the EC-Model are highlighted, especially those that set it apart from the functionalist usage-based mainstream. An outlook on future work identifies weaknesses of the model that must be redressed in the future and sketches some avenues for future research, e.g. by means of computer simulations. The final section returns to the questions what and where the linguistic system can be found and defines the linguistic system as a multidimensional dynamic contingency space populated by multidimensionally competing co-semiotic potentialities afforded by the interaction of speakers’ usage activities and social and cognitive processes under the influence of a wide range of forces.