The Axiomatic Theory of Abstract Objects

In this lecture series consisting of five lectures, Prof. Edward Zalta will present and defend the axiomatic theory of abstract objects.

We will discuss a body of theorems formally derivable from the axioms of 'object theory', which Prof. Zalta has been developing for more than 30 years. The axioms are motivated and presented in the first lecture, and once they are in place, Prof. Zalta will define a variety of abstract objects and systematize them by deriving the their governing principles as theorems. Amongst other things, we will discuss principles governing: truth-values, logical classes, situations, possible worlds, impossible worlds, concepts, fictions, Fregean senses, and numbers. 

The objectives of the course are to familiarize participants with the theory of objects, and to have a fruitful discussion about the topics that we will engage with during the lecture series. 

Programme

Lecture 1: 'Introduction, Axioms, and Logical Objects (Truth Values and Classes)'

Lecture 2: 'Situations, Possible Worlds, and Impossible Worlds'

Lecture 3: 'Concepts and Modal Metaphysics'

Lecture 4: 'Forms, Fictions, and Fregean Senses'

Lecture 5: 'Frege Numbers, Mathematical Individuals, and Mathematical Relations'

For further details and suggested readings see: