Seminar in Philosophy of Mind (426-0-20)

Topic

Social cognition in conversation

Instructors

Peter Dwight van Elswyk

Meeting Info

Locy Hall 213: Wed 1:00PM - 3:50PM

Overview of class

Pragmatics is the study of how we use language. But our use of language depends on the operation of various psychological processes. As such, the study of pragmatics is incomplete without the study of these processes. In this class, we will explore the extent to which influential theories in pragmatics fit with findings from cognitive science concerning the psychological processes that underwrite language use. Theories covered will include, among others, those associated with Paul Grice, Robert Stalnaker, Sperber and Wilson, and Craige Roberts. Special attention will be given to what these theories require of mindreading, which is alternatively known as mentalizing, perspective-taking, or Theory-of-Mind. For philosophy students unfamiliar with cognitive science, this class will serve as an introduction to doing philosophy of language and mind in an interdisciplinary way.

Class Notes

Final paper

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Registration is reserved for Philosophy PhD Graduate Students