Single Idea 3078

[catalogued under 19. Language / A. Nature of Meaning / 1. Meaning]

Full Idea

The various theories are not in competition. The theory of truth is part of the theory of representational character, which is presupposed by the theory of communication, which in turn is contained in the more general theory of speech acts.

Gist of Idea

Speech acts, communication, representation and truth form a single theory

Source

Gilbert Harman (Thought [1973], 4.3)

Book Reference

Harman,Gilbert: 'Thought' [Princeton 1977], p.61


A Reaction

Certainly it seems that the supposed major contenders for a theory of meaning are just as much complements as they are competitors.