Single Idea 22380

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 3. Natural Function]

Full Idea

The word 'knife' names an object in respect of its function. That is not to say (simply) that it names an object which has a function, but also that the function is involved in the meaning of the word.

Gist of Idea

Some words, such as 'knife', have a meaning which involves its function

Source

Philippa Foot (Goodness and Choice [1961], p.134)

Book Reference

Foot,Philippa: 'Virtues and Vices' [Blackwell 1981], p.134


A Reaction

It seems faintly possible that someone (a child, perhaps) could know the word and recognise the object, but not know what the object is for. Ditto with other things which have functional names.