skill: means of communication to get our messages across
in re (?): systematic mapping of sounds and symbols (and groupings of thereof) to meanings
focus of this class
human language is compositional (i.e., formed from parts), but how do we get from meaning of parts to meaning of the whole sentence? syntax rules prescribe fixed patterns/structures of organizing parts that convey meaning (e.g., SVO)
example of semantics (as a starting point for this class): as properties; parts of language (“reference”/symbol) serve to pick out/specify/map to properties in the real world (referent)
the semantics we choose limit the metaphysical capabilities of the language?
properties can have accuracy conditions (e.g., “Adam jumped”, the property of Adam having jumped in the past can be accurate/inaccurate). Don’t think of accuracy as just white-or-black truthfulness yet
heap paradox
some references (e.g., heap) does not refer to clearly defined property
this kind of problem can apply to all vague concept
semantic problem
some properties is vague by itself?
these properties have ideal & precise definitions but language can’t express that
how do certain sounds/symbols delineate/pick out concepts/properties in the first place? by coordinated association and use of the speakers
since we the users decide the meaning of the word, then if we can’t decide where a heap stops being a heap, then the concept just don’t have a precise definition. words are only as precise as our ability to conceptualize them??
three-valued logic (true, indeterminate, false)
how do figurative devices work linguistically?
truth conditions of propositions in fictional contexts