Reference: Insights from Sign Language (ASL and LSF)

Abstract: We argue that sign language data (here: ASL and LSF) can bring crucial insights into mechanisms of reference in language.

1. First, non-indexical pronouns are traditionally taken to come with unpronounced indices that provide them with a referential value. Sign languages have the advantage that these indices are arguably overt (Lillo-Martin and Klima 1990): coreference is typically established by assigning a position (or 'locus') to the antecedent, and by pointing back towards that position...