PHIL2610 Philosophy of Language

What makes words meaningful? 

How is it possible to use language to talk about the world?

What is a language?

In this introduction to the philosophy of language we will discuss these questions and more. 

Focusing on primary texts, we will examine some attempts by central figures in

recent philosophy to understand the phenomenon of language.

Announcements

    Your papers are now available in the Philosophy Department Office.

Meetings

Monday and Thursday, 2:00PM-2:50PM.

Schedule

Discussion Board

Lecture Notes

Assessment

30% Paper (1250-2000 words)

    Due November 21 by 4:30PM. Paper topics will be suggested. You are highly encouraged and very welcome

    to discuss your writing with me. I am happy to read outlines or drafts of papers up to one week before the paper is due.

    Late papers will be penalized by a 10% reduction in grade for each day late.

25% Midterm test

    One hour long, to be given in lecture (Oct 20).

25% Final test

    One hour long, during the last lecture (Dec 5).

20% Participation

    You are expected to do the reading and attend lecture.

    You are encouraged to raise questions and offer comments during lecture.

    Some very brief (<1 page) writing assignments will be assigned. 

    These brief assignments will NOT be graded. However, you must complete these 

    assignments in order to receive full credit for class participation.

Office Hour

Thursday, 3:00PM-4:00PM.

Academic Honesty

Plagiarism or other violations of academic honesty will be severely punished.