Donnellan's distinction and a computational model of reference

Abstract

In this paper, I describe how Donnellan's distinction between referential and attributive uses of definite descriptions should be represented in a computational model of reference. After briefly discussing the significance of Donnellan's distinction, I reinterpret it as being three-tiered, relating to object representation, referring intentions, and choice of rehrring expression. I then present a cognitive model of referring, the components of which correspond to this analysis, and discuss the interaction that takes place among those components. Finally, the implementation of this model, now in progress, is described.