The Western Malayo-Polynesian Problem

@article{Smith2017TheWM,
  title={The Western Malayo-Polynesian Problem},
  author={Alexander D. Smith},
  journal={Oceanic Linguistics},
  year={2017},
  volume={56},
  pages={435 - 490}
}
Abstract:Since the 1970s, Austronesian higher-order subgrouping has often included a Western Malayo-Polynesian (WMP) node within the larger Malayo-Polyne- sian (MP) group. WMP includes all Malayo-Polynesian languages except for those in Central and Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, although today it is generally not accepted as a valid subgroup. This paper critically assesses WMP, using both linguistic and archaeological evidence. In conclusion, it is claimed that WMP is indeed invalid, and that in… 
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