Abstract

This chapter starts with a puzzle about how a semantic theory can both incorporate the high level of context sensitivity of ‘what is said’ (O1) and the ability speakers have to express the same claim/assertion/proposition across a wide range of contexts (O2). The problem is that these two observations seem to be at odds with one another, and any semantic theory that postulates O1 must do so in a way that respects O2. Various proposed solutions are considered including the denials of O2, shared content, and absolute truth. These solutions are all shown to be unacceptable. A positive solution—Pluralistic Minimalism—is proposed. This option requires us to reject the idea that the variability of ‘what is said’ is relevant to semantics and the view that indirect reports report on semantic contents.