Topics: Logic and Language

– Troy Was – “Logic's Errand Girl,” 1875, woodcut by Alfred James Swinbourne (selling the findings of logic) [1]

Language has an indefinite number of uses in addition to the communication of information. Many of these uses are non-logical.

Oftentimes, misunderstandings occur when language form (the type of sentence) is confused with language function (the use of the sentence).

For example, an imperative sentence does not necessarily issue a command; the sentence could be used instead to express feelings.

Highly charged emotional statements in logical arguments need be translated into neutral language in order to understand what is asserted to be true.

Factual disagreements, attitudinal disagreements, and verbal disagreements all have different methods of resolution.

1. Alfred James Swinbourne, “Image: “Logic's Errand Girl”,” Picture Logic; or, The Grave Made Gay,” London: Longmans, Green: 1875), 41.↩


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	– Troy Was – “Logic's Errand Girl,” 1875, woodcut by Alfred James Swinbourne (selling the findings of logic) [1] Language has an indefinite number of uses in addition to the communication of information. Many of these uses are non-logical. Oftentimes, misunderstandings occur when language form (the type of sentence) is confused with language function (the use of the sentence). For example, an imperative sentence does not necessarily issue a command; the sentence could be used instead to express feelings. Highly charged emotional statements in logical arguments need be translated into neutral language in order to understand what is asserted to be true. Factual disagreements, attitudinal disagreements, and verbal disagreements all have different methods of resolution. 1. Alfred James Swinbourne, “Image: “Logic's Errand Girl”,” Picture Logic; or, The Grave Made Gay,” London: Longmans, Green: 1875), 41.↩	Forms and Functions of Language Informative, expressive, and directive purposes of language can be effected from any of the types of English sentences: declarative, interrogative, imperative, and exclamatory. Emotive Words Emotive significance, sometimes called “the “slanting of language” or emotional language is described with examples and exercises. Varieties of Disagreements The analysis and methods of resolution of disagreements in belief (dispute over facts) and attitude (the disposition or feeling with regard to belief) are discussed with examples and exercises. Language Exercises Examples illustrating emotive significance and the varieties of disagreements of disputants should refine the ability to understand the difference between the literal and emotive dimensions of the language use.
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Table of Contents:

Logic and Language

Forms and Functions of Language

Emotive Words

Varieties of Disagreements

Language Exercises