Single Idea 12660

[catalogued under 18. Thought / D. Concepts / 4. Structure of Concepts / d. Concepts as prototypes]

Full Idea

The same stereotype can give difference concepts; chickens are paradigmatic instances both of FOOD and of BARNYARD FOWL.

Clarification

Fodor uses capitals for the concept, rather than the word

Gist of Idea

One stereotype might be a paradigm for two difference concepts

Source

Jerry A. Fodor (LOT 2 [2008], Ch.5.4)

Book Reference

Fodor,Jerry A.: 'LOT 2: the Language of Thought Revisited' [OUP 2008], p.155


A Reaction

And I'm guessing that lots of concepts could have two equally plausible stereotypes, even within a single mind. Stereotypes are interesting, but they don't seem to be the key to our understanding of concepts.