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Full Idea
The function of names is simply to refer.
Gist of Idea
The function of names is simply to refer
Source
Saul A. Kripke (Identity and Necessity [1971], p.167)
Book Ref
'Meaning and Reference', ed/tr. Moore,A.W. [OUP 1993], p.167
A Reaction
This is Kripke reverting to the John Stuart Mill view of names. If I say "you are a right Casanova" I don't simply refer to Casanova. In notorious examples like 'Homer' reference is fine, but the object of reference is a bit elusive.