Single Idea 6391

[catalogued under 19. Language / A. Nature of Meaning / 4. Meaning as Truth-Conditions]

Full Idea

A theory of truth lets us answer the underlying question how communication by language is possible.

Gist of Idea

A theory of truth tells us how communication by language is possible

Source

Donald Davidson (Reality without Reference [1977], p.137)

Book Reference

'Reference, Truth and Reality', ed/tr. Platts,Mark [RKP 1980], p.137


A Reaction

If, instead, you explain communication by understood intentions (á la Grice), you have to say more about what sort of intentions are meant. If you use reference, you still have more to say about the meaning of sentences. Davidson looks good.