Philosophy of Language: A Contemporary Introduction

The Philosophy of Language: A Contemporary Introduction is a third edition textbook that covers key issues and theories in the philosophy of language, focusing on linguistic phenomena. It is divided into four parts: Reference and Referring, Theories of Meaning, Pragmatics and Speech Acts, and The Expressive and the Figurative. The book includes chapter overviews, examples, study questions, further reading lists, and a glossary. Updates to the third edition include a new chapter on expressive language, expanded discussion of pretense theories, and coverage of new literature and bibliography.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 238 pages
Publication date: 20 September 2018
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Philosophy of Language: A Contemporary Introduction, now in its third edition, serves as an invaluable guide for students embarking on the exploration of the intricate realm of language in the twenty-first century. Authored by William G. Lycan, this comprehensive text delves into the core issues and theories that shape our understanding of linguistic phenomena. Structured into four distinct parts, the book offers a comprehensive examination of various aspects of language.

Part I, "Reference and Referring," encompasses a range of topics, including Russell's Theory of Descriptions, Donnellan's distinction, problems of anaphora, the Description Theory of proper names, Searle's Cluster Theory, and the Causal-Historical Theory. Each chapter provides a thorough exploration of these concepts, accompanied by insightful objections and critical analysis.

Part II, "Theories of Meaning," presents a comprehensive survey of the diverse theories of linguistic meaning. Lycan compares and contrasts these theories, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, while also shedding light on their practical applications. This section offers valuable insights into the complex mechanisms underlying language interpretation and communication.

Part III, "Pragmatics and Speech Acts," introduces the fundamental concepts of linguistic pragmatics. The author delves into the complexities of indirect force, exploring how language shapes our interactions and the ways in which it conveys meaning beyond the literal sense. Through detailed discussions and practical examples, students gain a deeper understanding of the role of pragmatics in everyday communication.

Part IV, "The Expressive and the Figurative," delves into the rich tapestry of expressive language. Lycan examines various forms of expressive language, including metaphorical meaning, and explores how listeners readily grasp and interpret these linguistic constructs. This section provides a fascinating exploration of the power of language to convey emotions, ideas, and cultural nuances.

In addition to its comprehensive content, Philosophy of Language boasts several valuable features that enhance the learning experience. Chapter overviews and summaries provide a concise summary of each chapter's key points, while clear supportive examples and study questions aid in comprehension and application of the material. An annotated list of further reading offers students a wealth of resources for further exploration, and a glossary provides a comprehensive reference for key terms and concepts.

The third edition of Philosophy of Language has been extensively revised and updated to reflect the latest developments in the field. Notable updates include the addition of an entirely new chapter, "Expressive Language," which explores verbal irony, sarcasm, and pejorative language, particularly slurs. Several chapters have been expanded to include short sections on pretense theories, addressing puzzles about reference, irony, and metaphor. A much-expanded discussion of Relevance Theory, particularly its notion of ad hoc concept construction or loosening and tightening, and its application to metaphor, has also been included. Furthermore, the book has a new discussion of Cappelen and Lepore's skepticism about co.

In conclusion, Philosophy of Language: A Contemporary Introduction is an essential resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in delving into the complex and fascinating world of language. With its comprehensive coverage, engaging writing style, and valuable features, this text provides a solid foundation for understanding the core issues and theories in the philosophy of language. Whether you are a novice or an advanced student, this book will undoubtedly enhance your knowledge and appreciation of the language and its role in shaping our understanding of the world.

Weight: 364g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138504585
Edition number: 3 New edition