Context shapes meaning from "summary" of How the World Thinks by Julian Baggini
The meaning of a word, a gesture, or an action is not fixed and stable. It is shaped by the context in which it occurs. This context includes not just the immediate situation, but also the broader cultural, historical, and social background in which the act takes place. For instance, the word "mother" may evoke feelings of warmth, care, and security in one culture, but in another, it may carry connotations of control, obligation, and sacrifice. The meaning of the word is not inherent in the word itself, but is constructed through the interactions between speakers, listeners, and the wider society in which they live. Similarly, a gesture like a bow can convey respect and deference in one context, but in another, it may be seen as a sign of submission or weakness. The interpretation of the gesture depends on the cultural norms and values of the people in...
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