For an interesting and well-reasoned critique of Pinker's view, see http://www.grsampson.net/REmpNat.html

(I have no opinion either way; just think it's interesting to look at both side.)

Thanks, Scott. I have to say I enjoyed Words and Rules, but mostly because I was already familiar with many of the linguistic concepts. If I had not been, the sound of ricochets would have been deafening...