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Single Idea 9950

[catalogued under 5. Theory of Logic / G. Quantification / 1. Quantification]

Full Idea

The contribution of the quantifier to the truth conditions of sentences of which it is a part cannot be adequately explained if it is treated as other than a second-level predicate (for instance, if it is viewed as name).

Gist of Idea

A quantifier is a second-level predicate (which explains how it contributes to truth-conditions)

Source

report of Gottlob Frege (Begriffsschrift [1879]) by A.George / D.J.Velleman - Philosophies of Mathematics Ch.2

Book Reference

George,A/Velleman D.J.: 'Philosophies of Mathematics' [Blackwell 2002], p.23


A Reaction

They suggest that this makes it something like a 'property of properties'. With this account it becomes plausible to think of numbers as quantifiers (since they do, after all, specify quantities).