Semantics: Philosophical Foundations

3 credits · Undergraduate

(3 hrs Lecture) Semantics is the branch of linguistics concerned with how we construct meaning using language. It is arguably the most diverse branch, situated between the highly formalizable "inner layers" of phonology, morphology and syntax and the fuzzier "outer layer" of pragmatics. Key ideas covered in the course include: the difference between sense and reference, the application of basic rules in formal logic, prototype theory, componential analysis, and cognitive semantics; how to identify thematic roles in sentences; the functions of noun classifiers, deictics, and adpositions in different languages; and, the nature of metaphors, metonyms and image schemas. Cross-listed: ANTH-2405(3) and LING-2004(3). Restrictions: Students may not hold credit for this course and ANTH-2405 | LING-2004 | PHIL-2374.