Studies in the Way of Words

by Grice, H.P.
Studies in the Way of Words cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Language and Linguistics
Technical
  • ID: 3911
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-20
  • Published: 1991-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Studies in the Way of Words offers a comprehensive examination of the various aspects of language, from its structure to its social and cultural implications. This collection of studies provides a deep dive into the complexities of communication, highlighting how words shape our perceptions and interactions. /n/n The book is not just about grammar and syntax but also explores the philosophical and psychological dimensions of language. It challenges readers to think critically about the power of words and their impact on society.

Reviews
Goodreads · 1989-04-26
intriguing 3.50

They appreciate Grice's merciless critique of G. E. Moore and find the distinction he makes intriguing.

The reviewer highlights Grice's critical approach to G. E. Moore's work, noting that Grice does not hold back in his analysis. They find the distinction Grice makes particularly intriguing and worth exploring. The book is seen as a significant contribution to philosophical discourse, with Grice's essays offering deep insights and challenging conventional wisdom. The reviewer appreciates the intellectual rigor and the way Grice presents his arguments, making the book a valuable read for those interested in philosophy.

Quick quotes

    Grice attacks G. E. Moore (pretty mercilessly) for, without apparent argument, elevating common sense beliefs to certainty.

    I do wonder if the distinction Grice makes is as clear-cut as he presents it.

    The book is a significant contribution to philosophical discourse, with Grice's essays offering deep insights.

Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy · RE Grandy · 101-05-20
thought-provoking 4.00

They note that Grice's work is intellectually stimulating but may be seen as outdated by some. The essays highlight his unique approach to philosophy.

The reviewer discusses how Grice's work, particularly in 'Studies in the Way of Words,' showcases his wide-ranging intellectual curiosity. They mention that some may view his style as outdated, but the essays are arranged to emphasize a particular habit of mind and style of philosophizing. The depth and breadth of Grice's thinking are evident, making the book a valuable contribution to the field. The reviewer appreciates the way Grice challenges common sense beliefs and elevates them to a level of certainty, which is both thought-provoking and insightful.

Quick quotes

    He begins the 'Prolegomena' to Studies in the Way of Words by noting that 'some may regard [ordinary language philosophy] as an outdated style.'

    Grice had the kind of wide-ranging intellectual curiosity and a habit of mind that made his work both challenging and rewarding.

    The essays themselves are not always easy on first reading, but they show above all that Grice had a unique approach to philosophy.

UCL Discovery · TJ Wharton · 101-03-20
insightful 4.50

They focus on the role of natural signs in communication and find Grice's work highly influential.

The reviewer explores the role of natural signs and behaviors in communication, highlighting Grice's influential work in this area. They appreciate the depth of Grice's analysis and the way he frames his arguments. The book is seen as a valuable resource for understanding the nuances of communication and the role of natural signs. The reviewer finds Grice's approach both insightful and thought-provoking, making the book a must-read for those interested in pragmatics and communication theory.

Quick quotes

    This thesis focuses on the role in communication of 'natural' signs and natural behaviours—facial expressions, spontaneous expression of emotion.

    Grice's work is enormously influential in the field of pragmatics and communication theory.

    The book offers deep insights into the nuances of communication and the role of natural signs.

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