Péter Csatár:
Principles of integrating psycholinguistic experiments in metaphor research (Part I)
Abstract:
This study focuses on the problems of integrating experimental results in conceptual metaphor theory. By analysing metaphor experiments I argue that restricting psycholinguistic experiments to a corroborative, that is, verifying function induces many problems in conceptual metaphor theory. The first part of the paper is dedicated to the problem of contradictory results and the problem of the reproducibility of results. The second part deals with the problem of alternative and rival interpretations. The paper presents the emerging problems through sample analyses and suggests the introduction of methodological principles with the help of which these problems could be eliminated from research. By applying the suggested principles the paper finally argues for the integrative use of experimental and linguistic devices.
