COOPERATIVE PRINCIPLE

COOPERATIVE PRINCIPLE

1. .The connection between what is said and what is implicated, taking context into account, cannot be arbitrary. I

   • The CP consists of four “maxims,”
     • Maxims of: , Manner
       • Be brief, clear, and unambiguous. 1. Avoid obscurity of expression. 2. Avoid ambiguity. 3. Be brief (avoid unnecessary prolixity). 4. Be orderly.
         • For example, Bill’s reply to Arthur’s request for directions to the post office in (2) appears to violate the maxim of relevance. Arthur might interpret the reply as follows: “Bill’s statement that he is a stranger here has nothing to do with the location of the post office.
     • Maxims of: Relation
       • Say only what is relevant.
         • Example Mary:what do you do for living? Liz: I love cake
     • Maxims of: Quality
       • Do not say what you believe to be false. Evidences.
         • Example Mary: Do you like my new haircut? Liz: Oh yes, my mother had such a haircut in the 1980s.
     • Maxims of: Quantity
       • 1.Make your contribution as informative as is required (for the current purposes of the exchange). 2.Do not make your contribution more informative than is required.
         • Mary: did you enjoy the party last night? Liz: there was plenty of oriental food in the table, lots of flowers, people hanging around the chatting with each other Mary: Liz, can I have john's number ?. Liz: Yes.
   • AIM: To make communication more clear and ordered (by avoiding any clashes); no competitiveness but rather cooperation in order to achieve (mutual) goals

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