Rule-Following and Realism - Hardcover

Through detailed criticism of standard interpretations of key arguements in analytical philosophy over the last 60 years, this book aims to present a new conception of the proper starting point and task of the philosophy of language. To understand central topics in the philosophy of language and mind, the author contends we must investigate them from our perspective as participants in shared linguistic practices. However, our efforts at adopting this participant perspective are limited by our lingering loyalties to metaphysical realism and scientific naturalism. The book aims to loosen the hold of these views by exposing their roots and developing a different way of looking at our linguistic practices. A systematic rediscription of our linguistic practices is presented, and aims to transform our understanding of such central topics as rule-following, realism, and anti-individualism.