Journal of Language Evolution

Scope & Guideline

Innovating the Dialogue Between Linguistics and Neuroscience

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of Journal of Language Evolution with our comprehensive guidelines detailing its aims and scope. This page is your resource for understanding the journal's thematic priorities. Stay abreast of trending topics currently drawing significant attention and explore declining topics for a full picture of evolving interests. Our selection of highly cited topics and recent high-impact papers is curated within these guidelines to enhance your research impact.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN2058-4571
PublisherOXFORD UNIV PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
Country-
Type-
Converge-
AbbreviationJ LANG EVOL / J. Lang. Evol.
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressGREAT CLARENDON ST, OXFORD OX2 6DP, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The Journal of Language Evolution focuses on the interdisciplinary study of language development and evolution, exploring the complex interactions between linguistic structures, cognitive processes, and social factors. The journal aims to provide a platform for research that advances our understanding of how language emerges, evolves, and functions across different species and contexts.
  1. Interdisciplinary Research on Language Evolution:
    The journal encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including linguistics, cognitive science, anthropology, and evolutionary biology, to investigate the origins and development of language.
  2. Empirical Studies on Communication Systems:
    It publishes empirical research examining both human and non-human communication systems, contributing to our understanding of vocal learning, gestures, and other forms of expression.
  3. Methodological Innovations:
    The journal encourages innovative methodologies, such as Bayesian phylogenetic analysis and artificial language experiments, to explore linguistic phenomena and their evolutionary implications.
  4. Cultural and Cognitive Influences:
    Research that examines the impact of cultural transmission, social dynamics, and cognitive processes on language structure and use is a core focus.
  5. Comparative Analyses across Species:
    Comparative studies between human languages and animal communication systems are central, shedding light on the evolutionary pathways that have shaped language.
The Journal of Language Evolution has identified several emerging themes that reflect current trends in language research. These themes highlight the evolving nature of the field and its responsiveness to new methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches.
  1. Bayesian and Phylogenetic Methods:
    There is a notable increase in the use of Bayesian and phylogenetic methods to analyze linguistic data, providing robust frameworks for understanding language evolution and relationships among languages.
  2. Exploration of Non-Human Communication:
    Research focusing on vocal learning and communication systems in non-human species, particularly in primates and songbirds, has gained traction, revealing insights into the evolutionary roots of human language.
  3. Cultural Transmission and Language Games:
    Studies investigating cultural transmission, including language games and their implications for language structure, are on the rise, highlighting the role of social interaction in language evolution.
  4. Integration of Cognitive Science:
    There is an emerging trend toward integrating cognitive science perspectives into linguistic studies, exploring how cognitive processes influence language learning and usage.
  5. Artificial Language Experiments:
    The use of artificial languages to study the emergence of linguistic structures and dependency patterns is increasingly popular, offering experimental insights into language formation processes.

Declining or Waning

While the Journal of Language Evolution continues to thrive in many research areas, certain themes have seen a decline in focus over recent years. This section highlights those themes that are becoming less prominent in the journal's publications.
  1. Traditional Linguistic Analysis:
    There appears to be a waning interest in purely traditional linguistic analyses that do not incorporate evolutionary or cognitive perspectives, as the journal shifts towards more interdisciplinary approaches.
  2. Static Models of Language Change:
    Research that relies on static models to explain language change is decreasing, with a preference for dynamic, simulation-based methodologies that account for cultural evolution and interaction.
  3. Descriptive Studies without Evolutionary Context:
    Descriptive studies that lack an evolutionary context or fail to address the implications of findings for language evolution are becoming less common, as the journal emphasizes studies with broader relevance.

Similar Journals

Taiwan Journal of Linguistics

Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Language and Culture
Publisher: CRANE PUBL COISSN: 1729-4649Frequency: 2 issues/year

Taiwan Journal of Linguistics, published by CRANE PUBL CO, is a prominent Open Access journal dedicated to the field of linguistics since its inception in 2003. With its ISSN 1729-4649 and E-ISSN 1994-2559, this journal serves as a vital platform for the dissemination of significant research and scholarly discussions from Taiwan and beyond. The journal particularly focuses on advancing knowledge in linguistic theory, language acquisition, phonetics, and sociolinguistics, catering to a diverse academic audience including researchers, professionals, and students. Although it currently holds a Q4 ranking in the Linguistics and Language category, the journal's commitment to quality and accessibility positions it as an emerging resource for those engaged in language studies. Currently ranked #584 in Arts and Humanities and #668 in Social Sciences, it provides critical insights and fosters scholarly exchanges that enhance understanding within the field. The journal's open access model ensures the broadest reach for its published articles, facilitating the global sharing of linguistic research. For more information, visit the journal’s website to explore its latest publications and submission guidelines.

JOURNAL OF PRAGMATICS

Bridging Theory and Practice in Language Studies
Publisher: ELSEVIERISSN: 0378-2166Frequency: 15 issues/year

Journal of Pragmatics, published by Elsevier, is a premier interdisciplinary journal dedicated to the exploration of language use as a dynamic social phenomenon. Established in 1977 and set to continue through 2024, it serves as a vital resource for researchers across various fields, including Artificial Intelligence, Linguistics, and Language Studies. With an impressive Q1 ranking in Linguistics and Language and a Q2 ranking in Artificial Intelligence, the journal has made significant contributions, supporting a diverse range of theoretical and empirical research. It boasts a solid reputation, evidenced by its strong positions in Scopus rankings—occupying the 91st percentile among the best in the Social Sciences and 92nd in Arts and Humanities. Although it does not currently offer open access, the Journal of Pragmatics remains essential for professionals and scholars seeking to deepen their understanding of pragmatics and its applications in language technology, societal interaction, and cognitive processes. With its international reach and high standards, this journal is a cornerstone for anyone dedicated to advancing knowledge in the fields of language and communication.

Cognitive Linguistic Studies

Innovating Perspectives in Cognitive Science and Linguistics
Publisher: JOHN BENJAMINS PUBLISHING COISSN: 2213-8722Frequency: 2 issues/year

Cognitive Linguistic Studies is a prestigious journal published by JOHN BENJAMINS PUBLISHING CO, dedicated to advancing the interdisciplinary field of cognitive linguistics. With an ISSN of 2213-8722 and an E-ISSN of 2213-8730, the journal serves as an essential platform for the dissemination of high-quality research that delves into the intricate relationships between language, thought, and cultural contexts. Located in the vibrant academic milieu of the Netherlands, this journal has gained recognition for its impactful contributions, reflected in its respectable Q2 category ranking within the field of Linguistics and Language as of 2023. Redesigned to accommodate a broader audience, the journal welcomes original research articles, reviews, and theoretical discussions that bridge cognitive science and linguistic inquiry. As the journal continues its trajectory of growth, being indexed with a solid Scopus rank of #459 out of 1167 in the social sciences, it remains a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students eager to explore the dynamic interplay between cognition and language.

Sign Language & Linguistics

Elevating Research in Sign Language Studies
Publisher: JOHN BENJAMINS PUBLISHING COISSN: 1387-9316Frequency: 2 issues/year

Sign Language & Linguistics is an esteemed academic journal published by John Benjamins Publishing Co, dedicated to advancing the field of sign language studies and linguistics. With an ISSN of 1387-9316 and an E-ISSN of 1569-996X, this journal has earned a prominent place in the linguistic community, achieving a Q1 ranking in both the Linguistics and Language category, and standing out within the Scopus rankings, placing in the 77th percentile among the Arts and Humanities and 75th percentile in the Social Sciences categories. Sign Language & Linguistics spans over two decades of research, offering comprehensive insights and analyses from 1998 to 2024, promoting high-quality scholarly communication. Aimed at researchers, professionals, and students alike, this journal is essential for those exploring the intersection of sign languages, linguistics, and cultural studies, facilitating progressive discourse and fostering an understanding of this vital mode of human communication.

Languages

Unveiling the complexities of communication in a global context.
Publisher: MDPIISSN: Frequency: 4 issues/year

Languages, published by MDPI, is a prestigious open-access journal dedicated to the field of Linguistics and Language studies. Since its inception in 2016, this journal has rapidly established itself as a leading platform for high-quality research, achieving an impressive Q1 ranking in 2023 and standing out in both the Arts and Humanities as well as the Social Sciences categories with significant percentile rankings (76th and 74th respectively). Based in Switzerland, Languages fosters an international community of scholars who are committed to exploring the multifaceted dimensions of language, from theoretical frameworks to practical applications. With a robust e-ISSN of 2226-471X, the journal prioritizes accessibility, allowing researchers, professionals, and students to freely engage with cutting-edge research and insights. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, Languages plays a crucial role in advancing our understanding of linguistic phenomena, making it an invaluable resource for anyone invested in the study of language.

Suvremena Lingvistika

Illuminating the Complexities of Language and Communication.
Publisher: CROATIAN PHILOLOGICAL SOCISSN: 0586-0296Frequency: 2 issues/year

Suvremena Lingvistika is a distinguished open-access journal published by the Croatian Philological Society, dedicated to advancing research in the field of linguistics and language. Since its establishment, the journal has been pivotal in promoting scholarly dialogue within the linguistics community, especially among researchers and academics in Croatia and beyond. With an ISSN of 0586-0296 and an E-ISSN of 1847-117X, the journal has transitioned to an open-access model since 2007, ensuring that research is freely accessible to all. As of 2023, it holds a respectable Q3 ranking in the Linguistics and Language category, reflecting its potential contribution to the field. The journal's scope encompasses a wide array of linguistic disciplines, encouraging both theoretical and empirical studies. Supportive of new research, Suvremena Lingvistika aims to foster innovative approaches and methodologies in linguistics, making it an essential resource for students, researchers, and professionals eager to explore the complexities of language. With its ongoing publication until 2024, it continues to shape the linguistic landscape, providing valuable insights and fostering collaboration among scholars globally.

Cognitive Semantics

Illuminating the Cognitive Foundations of Meaning
Publisher: BRILLISSN: 2352-6408Frequency: 3 issues/year

Cognitive Semantics, published by BRILL, is a leading academic journal dedicated to the intricate study of cognitive processes underlying language use and semantic meaning. With its ISSN 2352-6408 and E-ISSN 2352-6416, this journal contributes significantly to the fields of linguistics and language studies, reflecting its importance in contemporary research on cognitive linguistics. Over its publication span from 2015 to 2024, it has established a niche as a Q3 ranked journal in the Linguistics and Language category for 2023, showcasing its relevance and growing influence in the academic community. Although currently not open access, the journal aims to provide a robust platform for exchanging ideas, theories, and methodologies related to cognitive semantics, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue among researchers, professionals, and students. Readers can expect to uncover valuable insights into the cognitive mechanisms that shape our understanding of language, making this journal an essential resource for anyone involved in linguistic research.

Reti Saperi Linguaggi-Italian Journal of Cognitive Sciences

Cultivating Knowledge at the Crossroads of Language and Cognition
Publisher: SOC ED IL MULINOISSN: 1826-8889Frequency: 2 issues/year

Reti Saperi Linguaggi - Italian Journal of Cognitive Sciences is a distinguished academic journal dedicated to advancing the field of cognitive sciences through interdisciplinary research that spans behavioral neuroscience, communication, linguistics, and developmental biology. Published by SOC ED IL MULINO, this journal has been an essential platform for scholars aiming to understand the intricate relationships between language, cognition, and social interaction since its inception in 2019. With an ISSN of 1826-8889 and an E-ISSN of 2279-7777, it is available in print and online formats, although it does not currently operate under an open access model. As of 2023, it holds a Q3 rating in Linguistics and Language, and Q4 ratings across other significant categories, signifying its emerging presence within the academic community. The journal's Scopus rankings reflect its dedication to high-quality research, positioned in the 57th Percentile in Arts and Humanities and 53rd in Social Sciences. Located in Bologna, Italy, Reti Saperi Linguaggi aims to promote critical discourse and facilitate collaboration among researchers, professionals, and students, making it a vital resource for anyone interested in the cognitive aspects of language and beyond.

CogniTextes

Diving Deep into the Cognitive Fabric of Text.
Publisher: ASSOC FRANCAISE LINGUISTIQUE COGNITIVEISSN: 1958-5322Frequency: 2 issues/year

CogniTextes (ISSN: 1958-5322) is an esteemed open access journal published by the Association Française de Linguistique Cognitive, dedicated to the exploration of cognitive linguistics and its intersection with textual interpretation. Since its inception in 2007, CogniTextes has been a vital platform for disseminating cutting-edge research that delves into the cognitive processes underlying language use, enhancing our understanding of linguistics in a cognitive context. This journal not only fosters scholarly communication among researchers and professionals but also serves as a valuable resource for students keen on advancing their knowledge in cognitive linguistics. With its headquarters located at the University of Lille 3 in France, CogniTextes encourages contributions from a diverse spectrum of disciplines, thereby enriching the field of linguistics and cognitive studies. The journal's commitment to open access ensures that its findings are readily available to a global audience, thus facilitating knowledge sharing and academic discourse.

Topics in Cognitive Science

Innovating Insights into Human Thought and Behavior
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 1756-8757Frequency: 4 issues/year

Topics in Cognitive Science, published by WILEY, is a premier interdisciplinary journal that advances the understanding of the cognitive processes that underpin human behavior and interaction with technology. With a commendable impact factor and a strong focus on research from 2009 to 2024, this journal garners significant attention in various subfields, as evidenced by its Q1 ranking in Experimental and Cognitive Psychology and Linguistics and Language, alongside a Q2 position in Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Neuroscience, and Human-Computer Interaction. Researchers and professionals will find invaluable insights into the latest experimental findings, theoretical discussions, and practical applications that bridge cognitive neuroscience, psychology, and computer science. Topics in Cognitive Science is especially pivotal for those aiming to delve deeper into cognitive mechanisms and their implications within our increasingly digital world, making it an essential resource for students and scholars alike.