Multiple Goals in Discourse

The studies in this monograph share two common features: a recognition of the intertwined nature of goal and discourse; and a recognition that people typically have more than one goal when they talk with others. It is essential that goals and discourse be conceived of as intertwined concepts: if talk is conceived as essentially a mode of action then these actions will often be taken in the pursuance of objectives. Correspondingly if we assume that people approach many social episodes with specific designs, ambitions, wishes - probably also misgivings and avoidances - then it seems natural to look at talk as at least a potential goal-fulfillment mechanism.