Single Idea 9005

[catalogued under 12. Knowledge Sources / A. A Priori Knowledge / 7. A Priori from Convention]

Full Idea

In trying to make sense of the role of convention in a priori knowledge, the very distinction between a priori and empirical begins to waver and dissolve.

Gist of Idea

Examination of convention in the a priori begins to blur the distinction with empirical knowledge

Source

Willard Quine (Carnap and Logical Truth [1954], VI)

Book Reference

Quine,Willard: 'Ways of Paradox and other essays' [Harvard 1976], p.122


A Reaction

This is the next stage in the argument after Wittgenstein presents the apriori as nothing more than what arises from truth tables. The rationalists react by taking us back to the original 'natural light of reason' view. Then we go round again...