Changing reputations: demarginalizing general semantics.Abstract This paper explores some of the possible reasons for the marginalization mar·gin·al·ize tr.v. mar·gin·al·ized, mar·gin·al·iz·ing, mar·gin·al·iz·es To relegate or confine to a lower or outer limit or edge, as of social standing. of GS. After describing the unique location of general semantics gen·er·al semantics n. (used with a sing. verb) A discipline developed by Alfred Korzybski that proposes to improve human behavioral responses through a more critical use of words and symbols. among disciplines, it briefly examines the critique of GS by Martin Gardner Martin Gardner (b. October 21, 1914, Tulsa, Oklahoma) is a popular American mathematics and science writer specializing in recreational mathematics, but with interests encompassing magic (conjuring), pseudoscience, literature (especially Lewis Carroll), philosophy, and religion. , one of its main skeptical opponents. In my view, a close look at Gardner's writings on GS will explain some of the current confusion about and neglect of GS by the educated public and various academic communities. A look at the work of Korzybski's students S. I. Hayakawa Samuel Ichiye Hayakawa (July 18 1906 – February 27 1992) was a Canadian-born American academic and political figure. He was an English professor, served as president of San Francisco State University and then a United States Senator from California from 1977 to 1983. and Anatol Rapoport also provides some insight into misinterpretations of GS. The presentation concludes with an exhortation for bridging the gaps between 'the GS world' and academics, scientists, philosophers, skeptics, and T. C. Mits and T. C. Wits (The Celebrated Man and Woman in the street). BRUCE I. KODISH, PH.D. |
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