Language, Meaning, and Behavior

Catalog description

This course introduces the study of lexical and pragmatic meaning in the English language. Topics include componential semantics, metaphor, implicatures, and speech acts. This course examines the words we use and the meanings they convey. Do synonyms really exist in English? What is the difference between a “path” and a “trail?” How do the words we use frame our thoughts and behaviors? How do they help us counter propaganda, clarify our ideas and values, make us laugh, and get practical things done? How do basic metaphors we use every day reveal our implicit worldviews? We will discuss these questions and more by gathering evidence from our experiences and our media. This course should be of interest to students in all disciplines, including those studying linguistics, communication, political science, and creative writing. Recommended for ENG, ECM and ED majors.