The Routledge Handbook of Linguistic Reference

This Handbook provides a comprehensive resource for understanding linguistic reference, exploring the relationship between expressions and their meanings, and the various theories and perspectives on reference. It is organized into ten parts and written by leading philosophers of language, covering topics such as referring expressions, reference and cognitive significance, alternate theories, and more. The contributions offer insights into what makes expressions refer to what they do, the connections between meaning and reference, and their implications for metaphysics, epistemology, philosophy of mind, and philosophy of science.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 586 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive Handbook serves as a valuable resource for students and advanced readers seeking to delve into the intricate realm of linguistic reference. It encompasses a wide range of topics and provides a deep understanding of the relationship between expressions and their underlying meanings. Comprising forty-one original chapters authored by renowned philosophers of language, the Handbook is meticulously organized into ten distinct parts:

I. Early Descriptive Theories
II. Causal Theories of Reference
III. Causal Theories and Cognitive Significance
IV. Alternate Theories
V. Two-Dimensional Semantics
VI. Natural Kind Terms and Rigidity
VII. The Empty Case
VIII. Singular (De Re) Thoughts
IX. Indexicals
X. Epistemology of Reference

Contributions in this Handbook explore various aspects of linguistic reference, including the types of expressions that refer (such as names, general terms, indexicals, empty terms, sentences), the objects or entities to which referring expressions refer, the mechanisms that determine the reference of an expression, the connections between meaning and reference, and the methods employed to establish knowledge about reference. Moreover, numerous contributions extend the discussion to explore the interplay between linguistic reference and key philosophical domains such as metaphysics, epistemology, philosophy of mind, and philosophy of science.

By delving into these complex topics, this Handbook offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the multifaceted nature of linguistic reference. It serves as a valuable tool for scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in advancing their understanding of the language and its role in shaping our understanding of the world.

Weight: 1110g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367630249