Single Idea 12621

[catalogued under 18. Thought / D. Concepts / 4. Structure of Concepts / b. Analysis of concepts]

Full Idea

The definition theory says that concepts are complex structures which entail their constituents. By saying this, it guarantees both the connection between content and necessity, and the connection between concept individuation and concept possession.

Gist of Idea

Definable concepts have constituents, which are necessary, individuate them, and demonstrate possession

Source

Jerry A. Fodor (Concepts:where cogn.science went wrong [1998], Ch.5)

Book Reference

Fodor,Jerry A.: 'Concepts: where cognitive science went wrong' [OUP 1998], p.88


A Reaction

He cites Pinker as a spokesman for the definitional view. This is the view Fodor attacks, in favour of his atomistic account. He adds in a note that his view also offered to reduce conceptual truth to logical truth.