From Linguistics to Deontic Logic via Category Theory

Peterson, Clayton (2016): From Linguistics to Deontic Logic via Category Theory. In: Logique et Analyse, No. 235: pp. 317-346

Abstract

The present paper aims to bridge the gap between deontic logic, categorial grammar and category theory. We propose to analyze Forrester's (1984) paradox through the framework of Lambek's (1958) syntactic calculus. We first recall the definition of the syntactic calculus and then explain how Lambek (1988) defines it within the framework of category theory. Then, we briefly present Forrester's paradox in conjunction with standard deontic logic, showing that this paradox contains some features that reflect many problems within the literature. Finally, we analyze Forrester's paradox within the framework of the syntactic calculus and we show how a typed syntax can provide conceptual insight regarding some of the problems that deontic logic faces.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Faculties: Philosophy, Philosophy of Science and Religious Science > Munich Center for Mathematical Philosophy (MCMP)
• ISSN: 0024-5836
• Language: English