Single Idea 9012

[catalogued under 3. Truth / F. Semantic Truth / 2. Semantic Truth]

Full Idea

The truth predicate has its utility in places where we are compelled to mention sentences. It then serves to point through the sentence to the reality; it serves as a reminder that though sentences are mentioned, reality is still the whole point.

Gist of Idea

Talk of 'truth' when sentences are mentioned; it reminds us that reality is the point of sentences

Source

Willard Quine (Philosophy of Logic [1970], Ch.1)

Book Reference

Quine,Willard: 'Philosophy of Logic' [Prentice-Hall 1970], p.11


A Reaction

A sensible interpretation of the Tarskian account of truth as disquotation. Quine neatly combines a common sense correspondence with a sophisticated logicians view of the role of truth. So what does "I want the truth here" mean?