more from John Locke

Single Idea 15991

[catalogued under 19. Language / F. Communication / 4. Private Language]

Full Idea

Since sounds are voluntary and indifferent signs of any idea, a man may use what words he pleases to signify his own ideas to himself.

Gist of Idea

Since words are just conventional, we can represent our own ideas with any words we please

Source

John Locke (Essay Conc Human Understanding (2nd Ed) [1694], 3.09.02)

Book Reference

Locke,John: 'Essay Concerning Human Understanding', ed/tr. Nidditch,P.H. [OUP 1979], p.476


A Reaction

Evidently not in tune with Wittgenstein, but it is obvious that I could invent any word I like for my favourite temperature for tomato soup.