Language Theory, Scientific Terminology, and Linguistic Controversies in Epicurus’ On Nature

In Book XXVIII of On Nature, Epicurus deals with epistemological issues related to the use of language. More specifically, he seems to be interested, on the one hand, in addressing the problem of errors that can emerge from the use of ordinary language in the philosophical sphere and, on the other, in indicating the most suitable tools and methods to justify this use, as well as to verify its correctness. The author, moreover, seems to be engaged in a double dialectical confrontation: firstly, he directly addresses his pupil Metrodorus, in a work of revision of previously held theories; secondly, he attacks the theories and linguistic practices of some non-Epicurean opponents. The aim of the present article will be to examine the nature and purpose of this confrontation in light of a broader examination of the various linguistic polemics present in other extant parts of On Nature. First we will examine some columns of Book XXVIII in which Epicurus engages in a dialectical confrontation with Metrodorus and his opponents. Second we will analyze some passages from other books of On Nature, namely II, XIV and, above all, XXV, which report other linguistic polemics in which Epicurus was involved. Finally we will try to show that a comparison with the other parts of On Nature helps to clarify the object, aim and nature of the polemic that runs through Book XXVIII. As we will try to show, this investigation can contribute to a more precise delineation of Epicurus’ theory of language and linguistic practice in the philosophical sphere, while perhaps also clarifying some notoriously problematic and widely debated aspects of his semantic theory