How to Do Things with Words

By: J. L. Austin

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Synopsis: In this seminal series of lectures by the noted British philosopher, J.L. Austin explores the profound ways in which language is not just a vehicle for conveying information but also a tool for performing actions. He introduces the concept of the performative utterance -- later called dubbed a speech-act -- which are utterances that not only convey meaning but also have the power to bring about changes in the world. The book also delves into the complexities of language, meaning, and context, highlighting how linguistic conventions and social norms shape our understanding of words. Austin's work challenges conventional views on language, emphasizing that words have the power to do things and not just describe things.