Question-orientedness and the Semantics of Clausal Complementation

This volume explores the compositional semantics of clausal complementation, proposing a theory that attitude predicates are uniformly "question-oriented". It offers new perspectives on epistemology and the philosophy of language, addressing challenges such as the relationship between know-wh and know-that and the nature of attitudinal objects. The book is essential reading for linguists and philosophers interested in these topics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 207 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate compositional semantics of clausal complementation, presenting a novel theory that posits that clause-embedding predicates exhibit a consistent "question-oriented" nature. By considering a set of propositions as their semantic argument, this theory unveils fresh avenues for exploring embedded questions and clausal complementation. Furthermore, it showcases a successful case study that demonstrates the interplay between lexical semantics, syntax, and compositional semantics, offering insightful perspectives on epistemological and philosophical issues such as the relationship between knowledge and belief, the nature of attitudinal objects, and the dynamics between language and cognition.

Cross-linguistically, attitude predicates like "know," "tell," and "surprise" exhibit the ability to embed both declarative and interrogative clauses. This embedding behavior presents challenges for compositional semantics, as these clauses represent distinct semantic objects, namely propositions and questions. Additionally, certain verbs exhibit a preference for a specific complement type, further complicating the analysis.

To address these challenges, this volume proposes a uniformly question-oriented analysis of attitude predicates. It suggests that the variable behaviors observed in these predicates can be attributed to their lexical semantics. By examining the semantic properties of attitude predicates, the book aims to derive their diverse behaviors and shed light on the intricate interplay between language, cognition, and philosophical inquiry.

This volume is a must-read for linguists engaged in the study of clausal complementation, syntax, and semantics. It also holds significant value for philosophers interested in applying linguistic tools to address philosophical problems. The insights and theories presented herein will undoubtedly contribute to our understanding of language and cognition and have far-reaching implications for the fields of linguistics, philosophy, and beyond.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031159398
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022