The Minimalist Program and Optimality Theory: Which is the Most Optimal? Wh-Elements as a Case Study

Abstract

This study analyzes wh-questions from the perspective of the theories of the Minimalist Program and Optimality Theory. We look at specific wh-constructions, including the gap strategy, the in-situ strategy, multiple wh-questions, and relativized wh-questions. This paper shows both the similarities and differences between OT and MP in analyzing wh-elements. One crucial difference is that OT solves the problem of optionality and clearly tackles some aspects of the syntax-pragmatics interface.