"The theory of mind is nothing other than the set of mental concepts which correspond to the expression of the illocutionary force of utterances" (Olson, pg. 270). since this course started, I have been thinking about the idea of 'theory of mind' and what it is. to me, theory of mind sounds a like the ideas of cognition. or it is the recognition of cognition, similar to metacognition? quoting a definition on wikipedia, "the phrase 'theory of mind' has more commonly been used to refer to a specific cognitive capacity: the ability to understand that others have beliefs, desires and intentions that are different from one's own." okay, so it's a part of cognition. so in this definition, theory of mind sounds more like empathy/sympathy, especially when many say today that autistics lack theory of mind--the inability to process the beliefs and feelings of others. olson relates theory of mind to illocutionary force--that illocutionary force is the manifestitation of theory of mind. i don't see the connection--can someone out there help??
another interesting part of the reading this week was the chapter on interpretation. i think it's safe to say that many of our world conflicts stem from misinterpretation. studying the philosophy of interpretation should be everyone's work, as we are all engaged in interpretation. this becomes an especially important task for those that make and execute laws, those involved in religion, and even in our profession as teachers. the repercussions of misinterpretation could mean life or death to a criminal, heaven or hell to the religious, or promotion or retention to a child.
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When I think of theory of mind, I think of the metacognition (thinking about thinking). Or, put another way, I might say "I think therefore I am." I think theory of mind does mean you are aware of your own thoughts and feelings and can infer or interpret those of others. I think this relates to illocutionary force because it's very subtle and not put forth directly. It sits behind the scenes, but still makes a huge impact on the play. I don't know if this is right, it's just how I think of it.
Your comments on interpretation were spot on, I think. I sometimes wonder if misinterpretation isn't the cause of most or all human conflict.
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