An introduction to philosophy of language through systematic and accessible explanations of ten
classic texts by such thinkers as Frege Kripke Russell and Putnam.Many beginning students in
philosophy of language find themselves grappling with dense and difficult texts not easily
understood by someone new to the field. This book offers an introduction to philosophy of
language by explaining ten classic often anthologized texts. Accessible and thorough written
with a unique combination of informality and careful formulation the book addresses sense and
reference proper names definite descriptions indexicals the definition of truth truth and
meaning and the nature of speaker meaning as addressed by Frege Kripke Russell Donnellan
Kaplan Evans Putnam Tarski Davidson and Grice. The explanations aim to be as simple as
possible without sacrificing accuracy critical assessments are included with the exposition in
order to stimulate further thought and discussion.Philosophy of Language will be an essential
resource for undergraduates in a typical philosophy of language course or for graduate students
with no background in the field. It can be used in conjunction with an anthology of classic
texts sparing the instructor much arduous exegesis.ContentsFrege on Sense and Reference Kripke
on Names Russell on Definite Descriptions Donnellan's Distinction Kaplan on Demonstratives
Evans on Understanding Demonstratives Putnam on Semantic Externalism Tarski's Theory of Truth
Davidson's Semantics for Natural Language Grice's Theory of Speaker Meaning
