Classical Linguistics: Between Grammar and Modern Linguistics

HUMANIORA – (June 12, 2024) In the development of linguistic science, there is a bridge connecting the tradition of classical grammar and the approach of modern linguistics. Modern Arabic linguistics emphasizes the importance of separating language studies from the influence of other disciplines such as philosophy and logic. This approach allows linguistics to develop as an independent science focused on the empirical analysis of language. This was expressed by Dr. Fuad Buali at the beginning of his presentation session at the International Scholar Engagement 2024 held by the Faculty of Humanities at UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang, Wednesday, June 13, 2024.

"By prioritizing data and direct observation, modern linguistics provides more scientific and reliable results," he said.

According to the Chairman of the National Coalition for the Arabic Language and President of the Journal of Translation Studies in Morocco, modern linguistics emphasizes independence from other disciplines such as philosophy and logic, unlike traditional grammar, which is often tied to these disciplines. The emphasis on studying spoken language is more relevant to the reality of everyday communication.

"Spoken language is the main form of human communication. By focusing research on this aspect, modern linguistics captures variations and dynamics that might be missed in the study of written language," he added.

According to Dr. Fuad Buali, the approach that considers all dialects equal without giving preference to the standard language reflects the understanding that every form of language has equally important value and function. He added that this can help eliminate linguistic bias and support language diversity, which is important in the context of globalization and multicultural societies.

Furthermore, Dr. Fuad also emphasized how linguistic studies in the West, which have developed rapidly, have been adopted by Arab researchers. This has sparked a return to the study of ancient linguistic heritage to find legitimacy and relevance in Arab linguistic memory.

"Some elements of Western linguistic studies actually have roots in the Arabic linguistic tradition, making integration and adaptation easier," he said.

In his presentation, Dr. Fuad highlighted two main factors that facilitate the flow of Western linguistic studies into Arabic research, namely novelty and scientific rigor, as well as the presence of Arab influence in Western linguistic studies. These two factors form an important foundation that makes modern linguistic studies well accepted and integrated into the Arab research tradition.

Moreover, Dr. Fuad highlighted the position of the Arabic language in contemporary linguistic studies. He explored the contributions of the Arabic language in building modern linguistics and how Arabic has contributed to the development of modern linguistics. According to him, modern linguistics presents both challenges and opportunities for the study of the Arabic language. With a more scientific and empirical methodology, modern linguistics opens new pathways for understanding and developing the Arabic language.

At the end of his presentation, Dr. Fuad concluded that the greatest challenge is how to integrate this modern approach with the rich and complex tradition of Arabic linguistics. Dr. Fuad stressed that this integration requires a balance between maintaining traditional values and adopting the latest scientific methods.

"This is a challenge that must be faced by academics and researchers to ensure that the Arabic language not only remains relevant but also continues to develop in a dynamic global context," he concluded.

With the presentation delivered in this ISE, Dr. Fuad provided insights into how Arabic linguistics can continue to adapt and evolve in the modern era. This workshop is concrete evidence that dialogue between tradition and innovation is essential for the advancement of linguistic studies. The Faculty of Humanities at UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang, through this event, demonstrated its commitment to facilitating constructive and visionary academic discussions. [al]