Philosophy of Language

Assuming that reality is accessible to us only through the mediation of a symbolic system, the course will discuss various theories about the relationship between language and reality. Discussion of the ways in which we establish objectivity and other points of reference will be emphasized. The course studies language and culture as implicated in the very ways in which we think of the real and the valuable. Offered alternate years. Prerequisite: any 100-level Philosophy course or consent of instructor.