- 380 pages
- English
- ePUB (mobile friendly)
- Available on iOS & Android
The Diversity of Meaning
About this book
First published in 1962, The Diversity of Meaning was written to provide a more constructive criticism of the philosophy of ordinary language than the more destructive approach that it was commonly subjected to at the time of publication.
The book deals with a range of philosophical problems in a way that cuts underneath the more typical orthodoxies of the time. It is concerned primarily with the concept of meaning and asks not just how people ordinarily speak or think about meanings, but also what is gained or lost by their so doing. The author challenges the assumption that there is only one way of talking about meanings and instead argues that no single analysis of meaning can suit the semantics of lexicographers, language-teachers, translators, logicians, historians of ideas, psychologists and philosophers. By examining various common concepts of meaning and their relations to one another, the book sheds light on the issues most alive in philosophical controversy at the time of publication, giving it lasting relevance for those interested in the history of philosophical thought and theory.
Frequently asked questions
- Essential is ideal for learners and professionals who enjoy exploring a wide range of subjects. Access the Essential Library with 800,000+ trusted titles and best-sellers across business, personal growth, and the humanities. Includes unlimited reading time and Standard Read Aloud voice.
- Complete: Perfect for advanced learners and researchers needing full, unrestricted access. Unlock 1.4M+ books across hundreds of subjects, including academic and specialized titles. The Complete Plan also includes advanced features like Premium Read Aloud and Research Assistant.
Please note we cannot support devices running on iOS 13 and Android 7 or earlier. Learn more about using the app.
Information
Table of contents
- Cover
- Half Title
- Title Page
- Copyright Page
- Original Title
- Original Copyright
- Dedication
- Table of Contents
- Preface
- I An Eighteenth-century Innovation in the Concept of Meaning
- II Meanings Conceived as what Words have in a Language or Culture
- III Meanings Conceived as Topics for Philosophical Investigation
- IV The Concept of Meaning in the Problem of Universals
- V Meanings Conceived as what are Understood in an Act of Communication
- VI Meaning and the a Priori
- VII Meaning and the Law of Extensionality
- VIII Meanings Conceived as Topics for Formal-logical Investigation
- IX Meaning and Vagueness
- X The Concept of Meaning in the Problem of Natural Necessity
- Appendix A
- Appendix B
- Index