The reason why i choose to read Metaphors We Live By

恨如冰

I chose Metaphors We Live By by George Lakoff and Mark Johnson. This decision wasn't random; it was driven by my curiosity about the hidden power of language and how it shapes our perception of the world.
Before reading this book, I had a rather limited understanding of metaphors. I used to think of them as just fancy literary tools, something poets and writers used to make their work more interesting. But I've always been intrigued by how language can carry so much more than just its literal meaning. So, when I came across the premise of this book - that metaphors are deeply embedded in our everyday thought and language - I was immediately drawn in.
The example of "ARGUMENT IS WAR" really struck a chord with me. It made me realize how often we use war - related concepts when we're arguing. We "attack" each other's positions, "defend" our own ideas, and see the other person as an "opponent." This isn't just a coincidence; it shows how this metaphor structures our very understanding of an argument.
The exploration of cultural metaphors in the book is also fascinating. Different cultures have their own unique metaphorical systems. For example, the up - down spatial metaphors in our culture, like "HAPPY IS UP," are closely tied to our values. This connection between culture and metaphor gives me a new way to understand different cultures and how they view the world.
What's more, the authors' challenge to traditional views of meaning and truth in philosophy and linguistics is really thought - provoking. Their experientialist approach, which emphasizes the role of human experience, has made me rethink my own beliefs. It encourages me to look at things from a more critical perspective and consider how our experiences shape the way we understand the world.
Overall, Metaphors We Live By has been an eye - opening read. It has expanded my understanding of language, culture, and how we think, and I'm excited to see how it will continue to influence my studies and my view of the world.