Language

In this reading by Rorty, this issue of "what is language?" was present throughout his discussion of Kant and Derrida. Is language simply a system we have developed to express ideas top others; a system that is imperfect because of the arbitrariness between signifier and signified that Rorty suggests that the Kantians believe it is. Or is it better described as he claims Derrida thought of it when Rorty states, "Derrida thinks that the proper moral to draw is that language is not a tool, but that in which we live and move" (316)? I enjoyed this reading because I think language is incredibly interesting. I, in my experience as an English major, have seen both views of language; both a skepticism and and reverence. In the plays of Pinter, Stoppard and Mamet I have seen a lack of faith in the power of words to truly express ideas and feelings. Yet, I have also experienced Shakespeare's 19th sonnet in which he claims the enduring power of words. I find this duality fascinating and makes me ponder what kind of power do the words we use really have.