7. What is the criterion for an expression’s being meant thus? A question about the relationship
between two linguistic expressions. Sometimes a translation into another mode
of representation.
the criterion for an expression’s being meant thus?
the possibilities are endless –
what counts – if there is a question of criterion – is some statement of
it
then the statement of criterion can be agreed to – or not –
and if not – there is room for discussion
the real thing here is – not criterion – i.e. explanation of – what an
expression ‘being meant thus’ – amounts to –
it is rather that the
expression is acted upon –
here in the action of an expression – or action in respect of an
expression – we have meaning
just what that amounts to – will of course be open to question
‘An answer to the question ‘how is that meant?’ exhibits the
relationship between two linguistic expressions. So the question too is a
question about that relationship.’
yes there is this
question about the relationship between the sentence – and the sentence given
to explain it – between sentence and explanation –
sentence and
sentence –
and the question –
is about that relationship
we will have account
– but no account – no explanation will ever catch up with use – with effect
explanation is
always too late
‘Understanding a
description means making oneself a picture of what is described. And the
process is more or less like making a drawing to match a description’
understanding is the
activity of language – of language use –
genuine
understanding is – seeing and exploring propositional possibilities
this picture
business – and making drawings –
is just imagery of
no real consequence
© greg t. charlton. 2014