The following text is from a philosophy of language article.
The private reference problem questions how mental content could refer to external objects. Suppose a brain-in-a-vat's experiences were phenomenologically identical to ours—would its thoughts successfully refer to the same objects? Putnam's semantic externalism suggests that meaning depends on environmental factors beyond intrinsic psychological states. If meaning "ain't in the head," isolated subjects may fail to have the referential thoughts they seem to have.
Which choice best describes the overall structure of the text?
It introduces a thought experiment and draws semantic implications from it.
It provides neuroscientific data about brain function.
It argues that we are probably brains in vats.
It compares different languages' referential capacities.
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. The text introduces the brain-in-vat scenario and draws implications about meaning and reference (externalism).
- Evidence: The text introduces the scenario: "Suppose a brain-in-a-vat's experiences were phenomenologically identical." It draws implications: "Putnam's semantic externalism suggests that meaning depends on environmental factors... If meaning 'ain't in the head,' isolated subjects may fail."
- Reasoning: The passage uses a famous thought experiment to make a point about philosophy of language.
- Conclusion: The purpose is to introduce experiment and draw implications.
đź’ˇ Strategy: Summarize: Brain in a vat (Scenario). Meaning needs the world (Implication).
Choice B is incorrect because neuroscience isn't discussed. Choice C is incorrect because probability isn't assessed. Choice D is incorrect because languages aren't compared.