Figures of speech - Philosophical Concept | Alexandria
Figures of speech, seemingly ornamental flourishes in language, are in reality the very architecture of thought, bending and shaping our understanding of the world; what if the 'obvious' meaning has always been a cleverly constructed illusion?
The conscious use of figures of speech, which can also be referred to as rhetorical devices or literary devices, has roots stretching back to ancient Greece, with systematized study emerging by the 5th century BCE. Aristotle’s Rhetoric (c. 350 BCE) meticulously cataloged and analyzed various forms of persuasive language, dedicating significant attention to metaphor and simile, these being the foundational figures of comparison. Simultaneously, Isocrates' school emphasized practical application over theoretical abstraction, thereby creating a fertile ground for rhetorical innovation. The political turmoil and vibrant democracy of Athens amplified the demand for skilled orators, thus elevating the study and application of figures of speech to a crucial component of civic life, and philosophy. Think of the heated debates in the Athenian assembly, where the impact of a well-turned phrase could sway entire policies—a world away from our silent reading, yet intimately connected.
Over the centuries, figures of speech have continued to evolve, reflecting shifts in cultural values and philosophical perspectives. The Roman era witnessed a surge in rhetorical refinement, with Cicero and Quintilian further codifying and popularizing these techniques. During the Middle Ages, figures of speech became central to biblical interpretation and theological discourse, often employed to reveal hidden meanings and allegorical truths. The Renaissance spurred a renewed interest in classical rhetoric, leading to an explosion of ornate and inventive language. Shakespeare’s plays, brimming with metaphors, similes, personifications, and more, illustrate the creative heights achievable through artful deployment of figures of speech. While the emergence of modernism and post-structuralism has challenged traditional norms of language, figures of speech remain powerful tools for communicating complex ideas, evoking emotions, and shaping perceptions. They appear across many domains when considering philosophical argument, experimental philosophy, and the evaluation of normative ethics. Consider that the trolley problem, a classic thought experiment frequently used to evaluate moral reasoning and ethical frameworks such as utilitarianism and deontology, is presented with deliberate emotional language and framing that constitutes a powerful figure of speech. Even the Wason test, a logic test and tool for evaluation of rational thinking and cognitive bias makes use of figures of speech to obscure logical structures.
Today, figures of speech persist as indispensable instruments of communication, permeating literature, politics, advertising, and everyday parlance. From the ironic pronouncements of political commentators to the evocative lyrics of contemporary music, these rhetorical devices continue to shape our understanding of the world. Are they merely tools of persuasion, or do they possess a deeper capacity to reveal truths, challenge assumptions, and transform our perspectives? How do these conventions shape our understanding of truth and validity in logic? The ongoing debate over the nature and function of figures of speech invites further scrutiny, beckoning us to explore their multifaceted dimensions and their enduring mystique.