Complexity and Hierarchy in Truth Predicates

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

In this paper, I speak in favor of hierarchies in the theory of truth. I argue that hierarchies are more well-motivated and can provide better and more workable theories than is often assumed. Along the way, I sketch the sort of hierarchy I believe is plausible and defensible. My defense of hierarchies assumes an ‘inflationary’ view of truth that sees truth as a substantial semantic concept. I argue that if one adopts this view of truth, hierarchies arise naturally. I also show that this approach to truth makes it a very complex concept. I argue that this complexity helps motivate hierarchies. Complexity and hierarchy go together, if you adopt the right view of truth.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationLogic, Epistemology, and the Unity of Science
PublisherSpringer Science and Business Media B.V.
Pages211-243
Number of pages33
DOIs
StatePublished - 2015

Publication series

NameLogic, Epistemology, and the Unity of Science
Volume36
ISSN (Print)2214-9775
ISSN (Electronic)2214-9783

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • History and Philosophy of Science
  • History
  • Philosophy

Keywords

  • Complexity of truth
  • Hierarchy
  • Liar paradox
  • Reflection
  • Stratification

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