Formal Properties of Language as Constraints on Neural Dynamics
What must a neural system be capable of to implement language? Current research annotates stimuli with linguistic variables and tests which electrodes, voxels, or language-model layers predict neural activity. Yet predictive success leaves mechanisms under-constrained. Here, we show that algebraic properties of language specify invariants that mechanisms must preserve: non-associative hierarchical grouping, commutativity, recursive closure, access to substructures, and structured workspace transitions. We term this the Neural Admissibility Program (NAP). Syntactic structure building is analyzed algebraically, with candidate mechanisms offered for each requirement: content-addressable work...
| Authors | Elliot Murphy |
|---|---|
| Primary category | cs.CL |
| Published | 13 September 2026 |
| Last updated at source | 13 September 2026 |
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