more from E Margolis/S Laurence

Single Idea 11137

[catalogued under 18. Thought / D. Concepts / 4. Structure of Concepts / f. Theory theory of concepts]

Full Idea

The theory theory of concepts says that terms are related as in a scientific theory, and that categorization resembles theorising. It is generally assumed that scientific terms are interdefined so that content is determined by its role in the theory.

Gist of Idea

The theory theory of concepts says they are parts of theories, defined by their roles

Source

E Margolis/S Laurence (Concepts [2009], 2.3)

Book Reference

'Stanford Online Encyclopaedia of Philosophy', ed/tr. Stanford University [plato.stanford.edu], p.9


A Reaction

I never like this sort of account. What are the characteristics of the thing which enable it to fulfil its role? You haven't defined a car when you've said it gets you from A to B.