Philosophy Of Language Questions
The difference between a private and a public language lies in their respective nature and usage.
A private language refers to a language that is known and used by only one individual. It is subjective and personal, existing solely within the mind of the speaker. Private languages are often associated with the idea of "inner experiences" or "private sensations" that cannot be directly communicated or understood by others. According to philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein, who extensively discussed the concept of private language, such languages are inherently problematic because they lack a shared basis for understanding and verification.
On the other hand, a public language is a language that is shared and understood by a community or a group of individuals. It is objective and intersubjective, allowing for communication and mutual understanding. Public languages, such as English, Spanish, or Mandarin, have established rules, grammar, and vocabulary that are commonly agreed upon and used by a larger number of people. They enable individuals to express their thoughts, ideas, and experiences to others, facilitating social interaction and the transmission of knowledge.
In summary, the main distinction between a private and a public language lies in their scope of usage and accessibility. While a private language is personal and limited to an individual's subjective experiences, a public language is shared, objective, and allows for communication and understanding among a larger community.