On Marx's Thoughts On Language

The thesis is undertaking to unveil the linguistic bearing of Marx's thought which could be defined as the "ontology of sensual activity". In Marx's context, language is not only the expression but yet the result of the sensual activity, and accordingly, the essence of language should be perceived as an existence category which indicates the richness of the existence of human beings. Language, as Marx conceives it, is the relationship between consciousness and thought, and therefore should be sensual and historical. In short, language is the "sensual nature". Furthermore, since the collapsing of language derives from the alienation of real life, an ultimate reformation is urgently needed.Considering the intended aim, the methodology of this thesis is comprehensive and has to be threefold. First, a clear comprehension of Marx's theory is needed; secondly, a well grasp of traditional linguistics would be necessary (to meet this request, the thesis will concentrate on William Humboldt's linguistic thought); and thirdly, we need a frame of reference to settle down Marx's theory (in this thesis, we will appeal to Martin Heidegger).My discussion could be divided into four parts:First, by analyzing William Humboldt's linguistic philosophy, I'm willing to attain apanorama of traditional linguistics.Secondly, by elaborating the Martin Heidegger's linguistic thought, I'm endeavoringto prepare a theoretic reference for Marx's theory.Thirdly, which is the subject matter of this thesis, I will discuss Marx's revolution onlinguistics. The argument will be advanced from four bearings: "language andconsciousness", "language and sensual nature", "language and history" and"language and thought".Finally, I want to reveal the influence and significance of Marx's linguistic thought, especially in the cotemporary context.