Mark Turner

Definition

Mark Turner is a prominent cognitive scientist known for his work on metaphor, language, and cognition. He emphasizes how metaphors shape our understanding of the world, influencing both thought processes and linguistic expression. His ideas have significantly advanced the study of how figurative language functions in human communication, illustrating the deep connections between metaphor and meaning.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mark Turner is co-author of 'The Way We Think', where he discusses how metaphor influences our thought processes and communication.
2. He argues that metaphor is not just a linguistic phenomenon but a fundamental part of human cognition and perception.
3. Turner's work highlights the idea that everyday language is often infused with metaphorical expressions that reflect deeper cognitive structures.
4. He has contributed significantly to the understanding of narrative and storytelling, showing how metaphor plays a crucial role in shaping narratives.
5. Turner has explored the implications of metaphor in various fields, including literature, psychology, and education, emphasizing its universal nature in human communication.

Review Questions

• How does Mark Turner's perspective on metaphor differ from traditional views?
  • Mark Turner challenges traditional views by asserting that metaphor is not merely a stylistic device but a fundamental aspect of human thought. He emphasizes that metaphors shape our understanding and influence how we conceptualize complex ideas. This perspective broadens the significance of metaphor beyond language itself, highlighting its role in cognition and everyday reasoning.
• Discuss the impact of Turner's work on the field of cognitive linguistics and how it relates to our understanding of figurative language.
  • Turner's contributions have significantly shaped cognitive linguistics by demonstrating the interconnections between metaphor, cognition, and language. His research illustrates how figurative language, particularly metaphors, provides insight into human thought processes. By applying conceptual metaphor theory, he reveals that our understanding of abstract concepts is grounded in more tangible experiences, transforming how we study language use and meaning.
• Evaluate the broader implications of Turner's ideas about metaphor for communication in society.
  • Turner's insights into metaphor have profound implications for communication across various contexts. By understanding that metaphors influence not only personal thought but also societal discourse, we can better analyze how cultural narratives are formed and maintained. This perspective encourages individuals to be aware of the metaphors they encounter or use, prompting critical reflection on their impact on perception, social interactions, and collective understanding within society.

Related terms

Conceptual Metaphor Theory: A theory that suggests that many of our thoughts and behaviors are structured by underlying conceptual metaphors that shape our understanding of abstract concepts through more concrete terms.

Cognitive Linguistics: An interdisciplinary approach that examines the relationship between language and the mind, focusing on how linguistic structures reflect cognitive processes.

Metaphorical Mapping: The process by which one conceptual domain is understood in terms of another, allowing individuals to derive meaning through analogy and relational connections.