Comment on Matisoff's comparison between Greenberg and Benedict

Abstract

In his recent discussion note "On megalocomparison" (Language 66:1.106-20, 1990). James A. Matisoff has described me as a "megalo-comparativist" and has compared (and contrasted) my methods with those pursued by Joseph H. Greenberg. He also reports that I favor a 'jigsaw puzzle" approach as contrasted with Greenberg's obsession for "pigeonholing" (colurnblcubiculomania). I do indeed attempt to fit linguistic pieces together (see below) but I resolutely deny being a megalocomparativist. As I see it. Greenberg and I are simply playing different games and the contrast in our approaches reflects that basic difference.