Problems With Interpreting Meaning. What do the problems with interpreting meaning discussed by the keys and the textbook tell us about the nature of language, its capabilities and its limits? Be sure to consider the four theories of meaning (van de Lage

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Carter Els

Mr. Fum/Theory of Knowledge P.2

Problems with meaning

20 November 2011

Word count: 1402

“What do the problems with interpreting meaning discussed by the keys and the textbook tell us about the nature of language, its capabilities and its limits? Be sure to consider the four theories of meaning (van de Lagemaat 51-55) and the five categories of problematic meaning (55-60). Use specific examples wherever you can. Try to build up a general description of what language can and cannot do, not just a laundry list of theories about language and its problems.”

The Problems of Interpreting Meaning

Language is a thick concept that can be described as a deliberate form of communication that makes use of arbitrary symbols rather than direct expressions of intention (  1). However, in order for those symbols to be considered language, they must be rule-governed, creative and intended. Since we receive the majority of our knowledge through language, it is crucial to be clear on the meanings of words in order to understand what is being communicated. However, language is susceptible to misinterpretation and misunderstanding. The four theories of meaning and the five categories of problematic meaning are of aid in the intricate task of defining and acknowledging the concept of language. The four theories of meaning are the definition theory, denotation theory, image theory and meaning as know-how theory; they each find meaning in dictionaries, the world and the mind while the last one further develops the three preceding theories, finding meaning in the social practices embodied in language (  1). In the area of knowledge of mathematics, the definition theory is pertinent and effective because this theory is only valid with a subset of words, much like the denotation theory; however in the arts, where more abstract words are used, neither of the two theories is fully applicable. The five categories of problematic meaning are: vagueness, ambiguity, secondary meaning, metaphor, and irony. It is crucial to be accurate and precise in mathematics and the natural sciences therefore these categories are not often found in those areas of knowledge, while in the arts and ethics, each one is used frequently and purposefully – whether for amusement or deception. Both the theories of meaning and the five categories of problematic meaning expand on the versatility of language and aid in grasping the full concept of language.

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The definition theory is the first, and most obvious, of the theories of meaning; it establishes that in order to resolve confusions about the meaning of a word, one must consult a dictionary (Van de Lagemaat 52). When one wants to understand the meaning of ‘circle,’ a dictionary can give an exact definition, such as: a set of points equidistant from a single point within a plane. Since mathematics is concerned with numbers and special configurations, an exact definition is required, and thus, this theory is perfectly applicable to the area of knowledge of mathematics. Additionally, since the natural sciences ...

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