Author Description
Among the various conceptions of truth is one according to which 'is true' is a transparent, entirely see-through device introduced for only practical (expressive) reasons. This device, when introduced into the language, brings about truth-theoretic paradoxes (particularly, the notorious Liar and Curry paradoxes). The options for dealing with the paradoxes while preserving the full transparency of 'true' are limited. In Spandrels of Truth, Beall concisely presents and defends a modest, so-called dialetheic theory of transparent truth.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This book investigates how to reconcile the transparency of the truth predicate with the logical challenges posed by semantic paradoxes. J. C. Beall, a prominent philosopher specializing in logic and metaphysics, examines the tension between the expressive utility of the truth predicate and the contradictions that arise from its unrestricted use. He argues for a dialetheic framework, which allows for the existence of true contradictions, as a viable solution to the Liar and Curry paradoxes while maintaining the transparency of truth.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- A formal analysis of transparent truth theories
- A detailed examination of the Liar and Curry paradoxes
- A defense of dialetheism as a logical methodology
Scope Limits
- The text does not provide an exhaustive history of all truth theories
- It does not address non-logical or sociological interpretations of truth
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Experts recognize this work as a significant contribution to the ongoing debate regarding semantic paradoxes and the nature of truth. Readers frequently note the technical density of the prose, which requires a strong background in formal logic to fully grasp the arguments presented.
Page Count:
169
Publication Date:
2011-01-01
ISBN-10:
0191613738
ISBN-13:
9780191613739
Philosophy
Epistemology
Analytic Philosophy
Truth
Logic & Critical Reasoning
Logic
Metaphysics
Liar paradox