Most philosophers, psychologists and linguists think of language as basically a means by which speakers reveal their thoughts to others. Gauker calls this "the Lockean theory of language," since Locke was one of its early exponents. Gauker argues that the Lockean theory is a fundamentally mistaken approach to language. The central problem is that the Lockean cannot adequately explain the nature of the general concepts that words are supposed to express. In developing this theme, Gauker covers a wide range of topics, including Locke's own views, theories of conceptual development, the nature of reference and logical validity, the nature of interpretation and psychological explanation, and the division of epistemic labor in society.