Topic. Two very different kinds of theories go under the names "theory of content" and "theory of meaning." One is a descriptive theory which says what kinds of things contents are, and pairs contents with mental states (in the case of a theory of content) and sentences (in the case of a theory of meaning). The second kind of theory tries to explain the facts in virtue of which mental states/sentences have the kinds of contents/meanings that they do. This seminar will focus on theories of content and meaning in this second sense.

   Though these two sorts of theories are distinct, they are not unconnected, since theories of the first type describe the data which theories of the second type aim to explain. Accordingly, we will begin with a fairly extensive survey of views about the nature of content in contemporary philosophy of language and mind. We will discuss, among other things, the the strengths and weaknesses of Fregean, Russellian, and possible worlds appoaches to content, and the differences between de re and descriptive thoughts about objects.

   We will then turn to an examination of contemporary views about the facts in virtue of which the thoughts of agents have the contents that they do, with special attention to indication, informational, and conceptual role theories. We will also discuss views which attempt to explain the contents of thought in terms of the contents of perceptions and the meanings of expressions of public languages. We may also discuss views which try to explain content in terms of interpretation, and views which treat facts about the contents of the thoughts of agents as primitive.

   If we have time, we might also discuss different views about the facts in virtue of which expressions in languags acquire their meanings, including views on which expressions acquire their meanings from communicative intentions, associated beliefs, and use in a community.

Texts. All of the readings will be made available either via links from the course schedule at the right, or in paper form for photocopy.

Assignments. Every student taking the course for credit will write a term paper. There may also be a few other short paper assignments along the way. Class presentations will not be required, though you will have the chance to present your work if you would like to do so.