The research topic of conceptual semantics is the human cognitive system, with a special focus on language. The approach has been put forward by Ray Jackendoff. The ultimate goal of conceptual semantics is an integrated theory of the human mind. The theory started out from generative linguistics, and therefore the model of the research topic is based on symbolic formalism, and language plays a central role in the work done within the approach. The essay will first briefly outline the historical background of conceptual semantics as a part of generative linguistics. Then, it will describe the features that define conceptual semantics as an approach: the research goals (understanding language as part of human cognition and establishing an integrated theory of human cognition); background assumptions (the system nature of mind and language, modularity, and cognitive constraint); methodological guidelines, and technical solutions (i.e., the formalism).