back to idea for this text


Single Idea 15788

[from 'Methodological Reflections on Current Linguistic Theory' by Willard Quine, in 19. Language / C. Assigning Meanings / 2. Semantics ]

Full Idea

Quine has argued tirelessly that syntax and 'semantics' are indeterminate, and linguistic semantics of the sort that is currently in favor is a pseudoscience and a pipe dream.

Gist of Idea

Syntax and semantics are indeterminate, and modern 'semantics' is a bogus subject

Source

report of Willard Quine (Methodological Reflections on Current Linguistic Theory [1972]) by William Lycan - The Trouble with Possible Worlds 02

Book Reference

'The Possible and the Actual', ed/tr. Loux,Michael J. [Cornell 1979], p.281


A Reaction

I think the defence of such things is that they may not integrate into science very well (or even integrate at all), but semantics is intended to integrate into philosophy, and is motivated by philosophical concerns. Quine may be right!