Blending basics

Abstract

This article serves as a primer for the theory of online meaning construction known alternately as conceptual blending, conceptual integration, the many space model, and the network theory. Our tutorial proceeds by analyzing novel and conventional examples of linguistic and nonlinguistic blends that pertain to topics of reference, partitioning, mapping, structure projection, and dynamic mental simulation. Principal concepts and processes of blending theory are described, including composition, completion, elaboration, emergent structure, and optimality constraints. We review recent work on blending theory from the perspective of linguistics, psychology, computer science, and neurobiology, and conclude with a discussion of potential weaknesses of the theory.

Complementarity of Space and Time in Distance Representations

“…Coulson and Oakley (2000) describe the mental space as a temporary container that stores information relevant to a particular conceptual structure as a perceived, imagined, or remembered scenario, which does not need to refer to objects in the real world. Grady (2007, p. 199) provides a more comprehensive definition of the mental space as "a coherent bundle of information activated in the mind at a particular time, representing an understanding of a scenario, real or imagined".…”

Metaphor processing and the acquisition of idioms: A mentalistic model

“…Conceptual blending theory (Fauconnier-Turner 1998) Coulson and Oakley created a theory of online meaning construction, also known as conceptual blending (Fauconnier-Turner 1998;Coulson-Oakley 2000). The theory represents a connectionist approach, delineating a domain-general framework theory, functioning as an explanatory model for linguistic and nonlinguistic blends as well (Fig.…”

#ForgiveUsForWeHaveSinned: Conceptual integration theory and political Internet humour

“…The basic ideas behind conceptual integration theory have since been elaborated in the works of Fauconnier & Turner (2006[1998, 2002, Turner & Fauconnier (1995, Turner (2007), Coulson & Oakley (2000), Grady et al (1999). Conceptual blending is a basic cognitive operation, "highly creative but crucial to even the simplest kinds of thought" (Fauconnier & Turner 2002: 18).…”