The problems of the theory of the reference of signs in modern linguistics

Abstract

The subject of the study is the history of the development and current state of the theory of reference, which reflects a variety of approaches and concepts. Some researchers believe that reference is a purely semantic phenomenon, while others emphasize the importance of context and pragmatics for understanding referentiality. The issue of the influence of cultural and social factors on reference in various languages is also being actively investigated. The history of the development of the theory of reference began with the works of Gottlob Frege and Bertrand Russell at the beginning of the 20th century. Frege introduced the concept of semantic reference, arguing that every word has its own referent in the world. Russell developed this idea by proposing a theory of descriptions, according to which words indicate objects by describing their characteristics. The works of Ludwig Wittgenstein and Donald Davidson played an important role in the further development of the theory of reference. Wittgenstein proposed the concept of language games, arguing that reference depends on the context and use of a word in a certain situation. Davidson developed the theory of truth, according to which reference is determined through the connection between language and the world. The pragmatic and cognitive aspects of research methodology are important for the successful conduct of scientific research. The referential nature of signs plays a key role in this process, ensuring effective presentation and communication of research results. The scientific novelty of the research lies in a comprehensive examination of the classical works of philosophers, semiotics and linguists, including Plato, Aristotle, Charles Pierce, Ferdinand de Saussure and Umberto Eco, on the theory of reference. One of the key concepts in the study of sign systems is referential. Referentiality allows to associate words with specific objects and understand their meaning. One of the most relevant areas of research in the field of reference is the study of ways in which linguistic units interact with the context and situation of communication. This allows for a deeper understanding of the processes of notation and interpretation in language, as well as the development of new theoretical models explaining these processes. Thus, scientific novelty in the study of the referentiality of signs continues to be relevant and important for the development of linguistics and related disciplines. The author's contribution in this area may lead to new discoveries and understanding of the mechanisms of linguistic communication.