Single Idea 17035

[catalogued under 19. Language / B. Reference / 3. Direct Reference / c. Social reference]

Full Idea

It's in virtue of our connection with other speakers in the community, going back to the referent himself, that we refer to a certain man.

Gist of Idea

We refer through the community, going back to the original referent

Source

Saul A. Kripke (Naming and Necessity lectures [1970], Lecture 2)

Book Reference

Kripke,Saul: 'Naming and Necessity' [Blackwell 1980], p.94


A Reaction

There may be two theories of reference getting tangled up here. Going back to the origin is one thing, and relying on the community is another. Do I always know who I am referring to? 'The funniest man in London'.