The Debate in Contemporary Conceptual Metaphor Theory: an Evaluation of the Roles of the Body and Material Culture

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss the changes and recent developments in conceptual metaphor theory, reflecting on both the internal consequences for the theory as well as the effects of those developments on linguistics as a discipline. Special attention has been given to the changes of emphasis, which range from the understanding of metaphorical cognition as a mental process to a perspective that focuses on the body and material culture. In light of these developments, we address in greater detail the concepts of schema-image and affordance, in order to highlight the role played by the environment and material culture in motor and linguistic practices based on the bi-directional metaphorical projection from the body towards the environment, as well as from material culture towards human cognition.