Overview of the volume

This volume examines the nature and significance of the reflexive aspect of natural language. Through theoretical statements, empirical studies, and programmatic applications, the volume explores in detail the formal and functional operation of linguistic reflexivity. Both individually and collectively the studies seek to indicate the significance of such detailed work on language for an adequate understanding of the broader contours of human life. We hope to encourage broader and deeper attention to the reflexive aspect of natural language and its significance not only for studies of language structure and use but also for all research in the humanities and social sciences which deals extensively with language materials.

Language provides a powerful tool for representing and characterizing the world, and much of human activity consists of using linguistic utterances to effect certain actions. When, therefore, as scholars, we undertake to develop accounts of human life, one of our central tasks must be to characterize the use of language. This use depends in crucial ways on the reflexive capacity of language, that is, the capacity of language to represent its own structure and use, including the everyday metalinguistic activities of reporting, characterizing, and commenting on speech. The chapters in this volume explore the implementation, power, and limits of this reflexive capacity.