Metaphysics of Logic

What is the relationship between logical laws and rational thinking? Are there facts about logic that are independent of us, and if so, what is their metaphysical status? Do purely logical statements have meaning? Is there a true logical system, or can several logical systems be accepted at once? What is the relationship between classical logic and alternative logics?

Given the central role that logic plays in contemporary philosophy, the importance of these questions cannot be underestimated. In analytical philosophy in particular, it is often assumed that logical formalization can lend arguments a special power. This power makes it seemingly impossible to accept the premises of an argument and yet reject its conclusion. Arguments that cannot be formalized in this way, on the other hand, are often rejected as ‘unscientific.’

But as central as logic is to analytical philosophy, philosophers disagree about its nature and foundations. This great diversity of positions in the philosophy of logic has a long tradition: Frege believed that the principles of logic were general laws of truth and that rules for correct judgment could be derived from them. (Der Gedanke, 58) Carnap's famous postulate “In logic there are no morals” (The Logical Syntax of Language §17) expresses the idea that logical systems can only claim validity relative to the specification of a particular language. Jared Warren believes that logical truths are a shadow of syntax or reflections on linguistic rules. (Shadows of Syntax, p. 325; Slogan 8)

The aim of the conference is to facilitate the exchange of different positions on the mentioned issues. Both systematic contributions to current debates and discussions of historical positions are welcome.

Call for abstracts

We encourage BA, MA, and M.Ed. students to submit abstracts on the above topic in English. Submissions should include a brief description of the topic (approximately two to three sentences) and an abstract of no more than 400 words for a blind review. Each presenter will have 45 minutes for their presentation, 20 minutes for the talk, and 25 minutes for a Q&A. 

The deadline for submissions is 30.04.26.. Please submit your application as a PDF to [email protected]. Documents need to be anonymized for blind review. Please make sure to use “Abstract Metaphysics of Logic Bonn 2026” as the subject of the Email.

We particularly encourage students from underrepresented and marginalized groups to submit abstracts in order to support diversity and equality at universities. 

All submissions will undergo a blind review. All applicants will be notified by email by 18.05.26. regardless of whether their presentation has been selected. We will contact you for further organizational steps if your presentation is selected.

We are working on financing the conference, however currently we cannot guarantee a full (or even a partial) reimbursement of travel and accommodation costs. Should you be unable to finance your accommodation, please indicate this in your email. A limited number of participants can be accommodated by the local student body.

If you have any questions, please contact the organizers [email protected]. We look forward to receiving your abstracts!