Dünyayı Anlamada Dilin Rolü: Dilin Temsil İşlevi Üzerine Bir Çalışma

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation is to put forth the representation function of language as well as the difference it creates in our understanding of truth. The study employs the Semantic Triangle, also known as Boethius Triangle, as the criterion, for it properly projects the representation function of language. The first chapter of the thesis dwells on the views of Aristoteles and Locke on language. According to these philosophers, language is the representation of thought, which is itself a representation of truth; that is, language is the representation of representation. Furthermore, language is first projected as speech; writing is put forward as the representation of language. In the second chapter, the views of Humboldt and Saussure on language are analyzed, which are considered as a rupture. According to these philosophers, language is the primary representation of truth, together with thought. Writing is still considered as the representation of speech. Third chapter dwells on the views of Derrida. According to Derrida, language has a function of constructing the truth. Writing is also freed from the role of representing speech, and gained a more comprehensive meaning. The last chapter concludes the study by putting forth the representation function of the language as well as the differences it creates in our understanding of truth.