Scalar networks and the dynamics of contrast: A Saussarian/Spinozian perspective on scalar implicatures

Research on scalar implicatures within experimental pragmatics is constantly moving forward, offering deeper insights into broader processes of reasoning. Such research typically focuses on the inferential route involved in using weak scalar expressions, which results in the rejection of their stronger alternatives. According to the prevalent theory, the alternatives of scalar expressions are plotted on a shared scalar structure (Property 1) while having some distance between them (Property 2). We argue that these properties are inter-dependent: (Relatively large) distance entrenches the scalar structure, subsequently facilitating the derivation of scalar implicatures. The current study explores this argument by examining expressions with a significant distance (Property 2) that lack an inherent scalar structure (Property 1) (e.g., “dog” and “dog and cat”). Using these expressions, we aim to unravel the relative contribution of distance and scalar structure in deriving scalar implicatures, which we posit are inseparable properties in classic (Horn) scales. Our results indicate that both properties influence the derivation of scalar implicatures. Moreover, their intricate relationship, obscured in the canonical scales, demonstrates the versatile weight of distance as a function of structure. We propose that this relationship can be interpreted through the Saussurian/Spinozian principle, wherein the meaning of scalar expressions, like other expressions, arises through their contrast with linguistic alternatives within their relational network. We maintain that this view provides new insights into scalar reasoning, and situates scalar implicatures within a broader framework of language use.