preparatus

Preparatus, also known as preparation or preparandum, is a term used in various contexts, particularly in psychology, philosophy, and linguistics. It refers to the idea or state of being prepared or equipped for a particular situation, action, or event.

In psychology and cognitive science, preparatus is often associated with the concept of prepared attention, which was first introduced by American psychologist William James in the late 19th century. The idea is that people are more likely to notice and respond to stimuli that are congruent with their expectations, intentions, or past experiences. This phenomenon is also related to the concept of expectancies, which refers to the tendency to perceive events as consistent with one's preconceptions.

In philosophy, particularly in the realm of existentialism, preparatus can be seen as a fundamental aspect of human existence. Herman Broch, an Austrian-born philosopher, discussed the concept of preparatus in the context of human motivations and actions. He argued that people's behavior is often guided by a sense of purpose or intention, which prepares them for specific outcomes or consequences.

In linguistics, preparatus is sometimes used to describe the preparatory functions of language, which involve setting the stage for communication or creating a context for understanding a message. This idea is related to the concept of pragmatic marking, which refers to linguistic devices that signal the speaker's intention or attitude towards the content being conveyed.

Overall, the concept of preparatus highlights the complex interplay between cognition, motivation, and communication, and its various manifestations across different disciplines continue to influence contemporary research and thought.