A Platonic conception of language.
Item
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Title
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A Platonic conception of language.
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Identifier
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AAI3288882
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identifier
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3288882
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Creator
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Simon, Ronald.
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Contributor
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Adviser: Robert W. Fiengo
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Date
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2007
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Language
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English
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Publisher
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City University of New York.
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Subject
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Language, Linguistics | Philosophy
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Abstract
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This dissertation focuses on a Platonic conception of language that parallels the original concept in the dialogues, but more closely matches that held by modern philosophers. The conception of objects is much like that held by Bertrand Russell in his Platonic period. The basic structure of the dissertation includes an introduction that discusses the 'problem of universals' from the dialogues through the modern age. The ontology of language is seen to parallel the positions taken with respect to this issue. A definition of language is also given. Other chapters include an outline of the metaphysics of Plato that stresses the idea of Forms. Not only does the dissertation give a Platonic philosophy of language, but it also analyzes particular linguistic phenomena that are directly affected by this ontology. The phenomenon of predication is discussed, and it is seen to be well accounted for if we assume that certain parts of speech correspond or denote Platonic abstractions. The phenomenon of names is analyzed and seen to be v accounted for in a Platonic manner if we assume that the description theory of names is correct. Descriptions contain Forms. Since there is evidence for both the Millian and descriptivist theories, a conclusion is not reached. Perhaps a mixed theory is correct. The dissertation ends with a brief conclusion.
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Type
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dissertation
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Source
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PQT Legacy CUNY.xlsx
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degree
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Ph.D.
