PHIL0354A-F09
Philosophy of Language
Philosophy of Language
Speaking a language is a complex form of behavior that plays a rich and varied role in human life. The philosophy of language seeks to give a philosophical account of this phenomenon, focusing on such questions as: How does language gain meaning? How does it differ from animal communication? Is language in some sense innate? Other topics to be addressed include: theories of reference and truth; the relation between language, thought, and reality; and theories of metaphor. Readings from philosophers and linguists will include works by Frege, Russell, Wittgenstein, Chomsky, and Pinker. (Previous course in philosophy or waiver; PHIL 0180 is also strongly recommended)3 hrs lect.
Speaking a language is a complex form of behavior that plays a rich and varied role in human life. The philosophy of language seeks to give a philosophical account of this phenomenon, focusing on such questions as: How does language gain meaning? How does it differ from animal communication? Is language in some sense innate? Other topics to be addressed include: theories of reference and truth; the relation between language, thought, and reality; and theories of metaphor. Readings from philosophers and linguists will include works by Frege, Russell, Wittgenstein, Chomsky, and Pinker. (Previous course in philosophy or waiver; PHIL 0180 is also strongly recommended)3 hrs lect.
- Term:
- Fall 2009
- Location:
- Twilight Hall 302(AXT 302)
- Schedule:
- 1:30pm-2:45pm on Tuesday, Thursday (Sep 7, 2009 to Dec 4, 2009)
- Type:
- Lecture
- Instructors:
- John Spackman
- Subject:
- Philosophy
- Department:
- Philosophy
- Division:
- Humanities
- Requirements Fulfilled:
- PHL
- Levels:
- Undergraduate
- Availability:
- View availability, prerequisites, and other requirements.
- Course Reference Number (CRN):
- 92623
- Subject Code:
- PHIL
- Course Number:
- 0354
- Section Identifier:
- A