1. Introduction 3 2. Modularity versus Holism 6 2.1 The Modular Approach 6 2.2 The Holistic Approach 8 3. Lakoff's Cognitive Theory (1987) 10 3.1 Basic-Level Concepts and Kinesthetic Image Schemas 11 3.2 Idealized Cognitive Models (ICMs) and Embodiment 13 4. The Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT) by George Lakoff (1980) 15 4.1 Metaphorical Concepts 16 4.2 The Systematic Structure of Metaphorical Concepts 20 5. Conclusion 23 Bibliographic References 25