Logic, Science, and Metaphysics: Logics as Scientific Theories

Timothy Williamson (Oxford University)

Lecture 1: Logics as Scientific Theories (5 June)

Lecture 2: Modal Logic as Metaphysics (6 June)

Abstract Lecture 1:

The similarities between logic and other branches of science are usually underestimated. Like other scientific theories, logics can be compared and assessed abductively in terms of their simplicity, strength, elegance, and consistency with what is already known. Tarski’s definition of logical truth provides a suitable standard of correctness for them to aim at. Such an account can avoid the objectionable features of Quine’s holism.
 
The Petrus Hispanus Lectures are delivered every other academic year at the University of Lisbon by a leading figure in current research about the nature of mind, cognition and language. Previous Petrus Hispanus Lecturers: Hilary Putnam, Daniel Dennett, Richard Jeffrey, Ned Block, David Kaplan, Tyler Burge.

For more information, please contact Professor João Branquinho [email protected]

LanCog Group (Language, Mind and Cognition Research Group)
Project Online Companion PTDC/FIL-FIL/121209/2010