Terminology

Abstract

Every philosophical discussion requires a proper definitional framework for three reasons. First, in order to set up a terminological frame of reference that allows raising the intended research question coherently. Second, in order to clarify the research question and its scope. And third, in order to provide the linguistic tools needed for the inquiry. The core terms that will occur frequently in my discussion are: ‘content,’ ‘representations,’ ‘experience,’ ‘truth’/‘truth-bearers,’ ‘expression’/‘expressibility,’ and ‘ineffability.‘ It goes without saying that it is impossible to give proper analyses, that is, necessary and sufficient conditions of all these terms here. Rather, my explanations are meant to provide a rough idea of which candidate theories are in play and which ones are explicitly ruled out.