Which theory suggests that language is innate and separate from cognitive systems?

The nativist generative view posits that language is an innate ability that is hard-wired into the human brain, suggesting that the capacity for language acquisition is not solely dependent on cognitive functions but is a distinct cognitive system. This theory, prominently associated with linguist Noam Chomsky, emphasizes that children are born with a built-in grammatical structure that allows them to understand and produce language.

According to this view, the complexity of language cannot be explained purely by environmental influences or cognitive processes; rather, it suggests a specialized mechanism dedicated to language acquisition exists. This innate aspect allows children to rapidly learn and use language, even when exposed to limited examples, showcasing the idea that language development is a unique and separate process from other cognitive tasks. This stands in contrast to theories that consider language development as deeply intertwined with general cognitive skills or heavily influenced by social interactions.