Thinking About Language considers the ideas underpinning language study, introducing past and current debates on the way that human language works. The book offers a balance between theory and application and provides an accessible introduction to the history of linguistic theory and the variety of theoretical approaches to language study.

'The goal of this volume is to provide an introduction to a number of conceptual and philosophical issues surrounding the nature and study of language. The book is wonderfully clear and engaging, and deserves a place in every undergraduate curriculum.' - Geoffrey Poole, School of English Literature, Language and Linguistics, University of Newcastle, UK

Series Preface
Introduction
PART 1: INTRODUCING LANGUAGE THEORY
Theory in Language Study
Language is...
PART II: APPLYING LANGUAGE THEORY
How Do Words Work?
How Does Language Relate to the World?
Is Language Like a Code?
How is Language Related to Thought?
How Does Context Affect Meaning?
Is Language Logical?
How Do Children Learn Language?
A Final Thought: Do Other Animals have Language?
Bibliography
Index

SIOBHAN CHAPMAN is Lecturer in English Language at the University of Liverpool, UK. Her publications include Accent in Context, Philosophy for Linguists, Paul Grice, Philosopher and Linguist and Key Thinkers in Linguistics and the Philosophy of Language.