Owen Griffiths (LSE): “Isomorphism invariance and overgeneration”

Abstract: The isomorphism invariance criterion of logical nature has much to commend it. It can be philosophically motivated by the thought that logic is distinctively general or topic neutral. It is capable of precise set-theoretic formulation. And it delivers a plausible extension of ‘logical constant’ which respects the intuitively clear cases. Despite its attractions, the criterion has recently come under attack.  Critics such as Feferman, MacFarlane and Bonnay argue that the criterion overgenerates by incorrectly judging mathematical notions as logical. We consider five possible precisifications of the overgeneration argument and find them all unconvincing. This is joint work with Alex Paseau.

Owen Griffiths is an LSE Fellow in Philosophy.

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