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The Problem of Distinguishing Languages and Dialects The problem of determining language and dialect boundaries is in a state of disorder due to the lack of generally agreed scientific measures and methods for deciding which two forms of speech are separate languages and which are dialects of the same language. After surveying the three general approaches to this problem, the example of the approach adopted in China is considered in detail. This approach, which contains some elements that may be new to and at odds with other linguistic traditions, provides insights that may make useful contributions to solving this problem. A challenge is raised to linguists the world over to work cooperatively in solving the problem of language and dialect boundaries, because it is only through broader knowledge, deeper understanding and cooperation among knowledgeable experts that this matter can be resolved, and an agreement reached on the number of languages in the world. (责任编辑：admin) |