Language, Thought, and Logic (Rethinking Theory)

By John M. Ellis

Book Overview

Argues that categorization, and not syntax, is the most important aspect of language, suggests that some philosophical problems are caused by an inadequate theory of language, and promotes a fresh approach to linguistic theory.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0810110954
• ISBN13: 9780810110953
• Release Date: July 1993
• Publisher: Northwestern University Press
• Length: 163 Pages
• Weight: 1.10 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.0" x 0.8" x 6.5"

Customer Reviews

an important and unjustly neglected critique

This is a major rethinking of theory of language by a professor of German literature. I have never seen it referred to in the literature, and that is a terrible, sinful omission. Ellis's identifying CATEGORIZATION as the major element of language, and subjecting this view to a very close scrutiny, deserves the attention of linguists, philosophers of language, psychologists, and mathematicians--among others. My only serious criticism is that Ellis's perspective/critique is limited by being entirely "adultocentric" (i.e., it fails to take into account very early individual development - see my The Unboundaried Self).