Drifting Towards Metaphysics

The transcript discusses the intellectual journey from philosophy of language to metaphysics, focusing on the theory of reference. It explores how words attach to both natural and non-natural things, and the need for a theory of reference in the social world. The speaker's dissertation work highlights the shift from language to metaphysics, culminating in a debate during the dissertation defense about the true focus of the work.

In what way did the author feel their work related to metaphysics?

What was the reaction of the committee member regarding the nature of the dissertation?