Reference and Definite Descriptions

Abstract

This chapter discusses definite descriptions, arguing that they have two possible functions and that failure to deal with this duality of function obscures the genuine referring use of definite descriptions. The first function is the referential use of definite description, in which the speaker uses it to refer to something. The second is the attributive use, in which the speaker asserts something about whatever or whoever fits the description. The chapter then examines the theories of Bertrand Russell and Peter Strawson regarding definite descriptions, saying that there is something wrong with their theories.

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