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Argument Quote by John Searle

“There are clear cases in which understanding literally applies and clear cases in which it does not apply; and these two sorts of cases are all I need for this argument.” quote by John Searle
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“There are clear cases in which understanding literally applies and clear cases in which it does not apply; and these two sorts of cases are all I need for this argument.”

John Searle

About This Quote

Source Book: Mind, Language, and Society, John Searle, 1992

Distinguishes cases where literal interpretation works from those where it fails, forming the basis of his argument.

In simple terms: Shows when literal meaning applies and when it doesn’t.

Key Takeaway

Identify the type of case before applying literal meaning.

Themes

philosophy language argumentation

Mood

analytical critical inquisitive

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • legal interpretation
  • philosophical debate
  • teaching language
  • writing
  • analysis

Key Concepts

semantics literalism contextual analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does literal interpretation mislead?
  • How to decide which case applies?
A Different Perspective

Literal meaning may be insufficient in nuanced or metaphorical contexts.

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