Tyranny of Words

by Stuart Chase

Book Overview

A popular approach to semantics in which the author discussess how to clarify the meaning of words and achieve more exact communication. Index

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0156923947
• ISBN13: 9780156923941
• Release Date: April 1959
• Publisher: Houghton Mifflin
• Length: 420 Pages
• Weight: 0.90 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 5.6" x 8.6"

Customer Reviews

The book was in bad shape, falling apart. I want one in much better condition

Book in bad shape falling apart. I want one in good shape.

Perspective on language...

Language or Words (if you will) may be the most significant distinction that the human species has. It has provided man with a creative medium almost beyond compare and at the same time in our innocence we have allowed our selves to assign words an importance or value that has become destructive, misleading, perverted, etc. This book could get you on the road to recovery. Mr. Chase is not nearly as philosophical about these issues as I tend to be but it may be to his credit. I loved the book anyhow...give it a try it may change how you think and speak.

Still a useful book

Still a useful book after all these years. It was first published in 1938. The author is strong on scientific method and objectivity. But on page 168 of the edition I have, he tells us that "Simile, metaphor and poetry are legitimate and useful methods of communication, provided speaker and hearer are conscious that they are being employed." All kinds of things can be done with words and it is the author's wish that they be used for the good of the individual and the good of society. But people still continue to differ on the meaning of the word "good."

Great book and service

I received the book quickly and it was in brand-new condition.

Let Me Frame the Argument...

The book is dated but fascinating. It introduces the notion that much of what we argue about is really not an argument about facts but one about definitions. It is fascinating also to note the players in the 1930s and to see what their predictions became. A wonderful introduction to semantics with the caution that if you let an enemy select the terms of the argument, he has already won it.