large number of other topics are best approached by way of
an understanding of mental phenomena. In my hands at
least, they are approached by way of an analysis of mind that
rejects both dualism and materialism. I set out to write a
book about mind, language, and society, and now that it is
finished, I discover that a disproportionately large part of it is
about the mind. Given the intellectual basis from which the
argument proceeds, that emphasis should not be surprising.

I have borrowed shamelessly from my earlier writings.
Friends of those works may justifiably feel a sense of déjà vu
at some of the ideas in this book. I can only say that in order
to tell you how it all works together, I have to tell you some
of the things I have said before.

Several people have helped in the preparation of this book.
I especially want to thank my research assistant, Jennifer
Hudin; and most of all, my wife Dagmar Searle, who, as
usual, was helpful at every stage. I dedicate this book to her.

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