How to Do Things with Words

How to Do Things with Words is a groundbreaking work by British philosopher J.L. Austin, first published posthumously in 1962. This influential text introduces the theory of speech acts, revolutionising the philosophy of language by emphasising the performative aspects of linguistic expressions.

Austin argues that language is not merely a tool for describing facts or conveying information but also a means of performing actions. He distinguishes between constative utterances, which describe the world and can be true or false, and performative utterances, which enact something simply by being spoken (e.g., "I apologise" or "I promise"). Through a series of lectures, Austin explores how speech acts function, the conditions for their success, and how context influences meaning.

This work has had a profound impact on linguistics, philosophy, and communication studies, shaping fields such as pragmatics and discourse analysis. How to Do Things with Words remains a foundational text for anyone interested in understanding the dynamic relationship between language, action, and meaning.

Product Details:

• ISBN: 177323966X
• EAN: 9781773239668
• Publisher: Must Have Books
  
• Binding: Paperback
• Pub Date: January 11, 2023
• Physical Info: 1.02 cms H x 22.86 cms L x 15.24 cms W (0.26 kgs), 174 pages