more from David E. Cooper

Single Idea 4576

[catalogued under 19. Language / E. Analyticity / 2. Analytic Truths]

Full Idea

The definition of analytic truth which has, I believe, the most chance of success is one in terms of synonymy; ..an analytic truth is one which can be transformed into a logical truth once synonyms are replaced by synonyms.

Gist of Idea

An analytic truth is one which becomes a logical truth when some synonyms have been replaced

Source

David E. Cooper (Philosophy and the Nature of Language [1973], §7.1)

Book Reference

Cooper,David E.: 'Philosophy and the Nature of Language' [Longman 1979], p.165


A Reaction

Sounds promising, though there is Quine's notorious problem of circularity in all these concepts. If synonymy is conventional, then so is analyticity. I personally feel that the circle can be broken.