U.S. fancies a huge metaphor repository

May 25, 2011 | Source: Network World

Researchers with the U.S. Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity (IARPA) want to build a repository of metaphors. Not just American/English metaphors, but those of Iranian, Farsi, Mexican, Spanish, and Russian speakers.

The Metaphor Program will produce a methodology, tools, and techniques together with a prototype system that will identify metaphors that provide insight into cultural beliefs.  Specifically:

  • Shape how people think about complex topics and can influence beliefs.
  • Reduce the complexity of meaning associated with a topic by capturing or expressing patterns.
  • Show uncovered inferred meanings and worldviews of particular groups or individuals: Characterization of disparities in social issues and contrasting political goals; exposure of inclusion and exclusion of social and political groups and understanding of psychological problems and conflicts.

The Metaphor Program is divided into two phases, totaling 60 months, and is intended to begin in November 2011.