Russell's Theory of Descriptions

Russell's Theory of Descriptions addresses how we talk about things that may not actually exist, like fictional characters or things described in vague terms. It suggests that instead of assuming these things exist, we should focus on the meaning of the descriptions themselves. For example, when we say "the King of France," if there is no current king, we understand the phrase is about the concept of kingship rather than implying a real person exists. Thus, it clarifies how language functions to convey ideas without assuming the existence of the subjects we discuss.