Mapping Meaning: 2 Propositions and Proposals: What the World Offers vs What We Offer

In our previous post, we explored the two orientations of the mind — cognitive and desiderative — and how they shape the way meaning is projected. Today, we take the next step: how these orientations manifest in language itself, through the distinction between propositions and proposals.

This distinction reveals not just grammatical function, but how language mediates between what the world offers and what we offer in return. It shows how thought and desire extend into the semiotic field, creating possibilities that are thinkable, negotiable, and actionable.

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Propositions: Projecting the World

Cognitive mental processes orient us toward what is or could be, and they project propositions — statements or questions about reality. Propositions construe the world as a field of possibility and invite evaluation, reflection, or verification.

• Function:
  Present construals of reality, inviting epistemic engagement

• Orientation:
  Toward what is possible, probable, or usual

• Examples:

  • “The sun rises in the east.” (statement)

  • “Could the storm arrive by evening?” (question)

Propositions are like offers from the world: they present a slice of reality for consideration. We assess, question, or accept them — but they primarily direct attention to what is the case, not what should be done.

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Proposals: Projecting the Self

Desiderative mental processes orient us toward what should, might, or must be done, and they project proposals — offers, commands, invitations, or warnings. Proposals construe possible courses of action, making futures thinkable and negotiable.

• Function:
  Present potential actions, inviting practical engagement and commitment

• Orientation:
  Toward readiness, obligation, or inclination

• Examples:

  • “Please submit the report by Friday.” (command/request)

  • “Let’s meet tomorrow to discuss the plan.” (offer/invitation)

Proposals are like offers from ourselves: they extend possibilities into the world and invite others to respond. Unlike propositions, proposals are action-oriented: they are about shaping what happens next rather than evaluating what already is.

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Projection and Orientation: Two Ways of Extending Meaning

Together, propositions and proposals illustrate the dual pathways by which meaning reaches beyond the immediate moment:

Orientation	Mental Process	Projection Type	Focus	Engagement with Others
Cognitive	Thinking, perceiving	Proposition	Possible realities	Evaluation, inquiry, agreement
Desiderative	Wanting, fearing, hoping	Proposal	Possible actions	Negotiation, commitment, collaboration

This table captures a key insight: language is not neutral. Every projection positions speakers and listeners relative to potentiality — either toward what could be known or what could be done.

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Why This Matters

Understanding propositions and proposals helps us see the semiotic mechanics of thought and desire:

• Cognition → propositions → attention to reality

• Desire → proposals → orientation to action

These dual projections are the foundation for the next layer of meaning-making: modality and modulation, where we nuance these projections with probability, obligation, and readiness. By tracing these axes, we begin to see how language structures not only what we know but also what we are ready to do.

In the next post, we will explore how modalisation and modulation operate across propositions and proposals, and how epistemic and practical orientations intersect to shape the landscape of meaning.