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Quine's Theories on Linguistic Indeterminacy
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Indeterminacy of Translation
Quine's theory that there can be multiple correct translations of sentences in another language, questioning the objectivity of meaning. The significance is its challenge to the possibility of a precise semantic theory.
Web of Belief
A metaphor created by Quine to describe the interconnected, holistic nature of our beliefs and knowledge. A change in one part can affect others. The significance is its illustration of the complexity and interdependence in our knowledge systems.
Radical Translation
Refers to the process of translating a completely new language into a familiar one, without any bilinguals. The significance lies in highlighting the problem of indeterminacy in linguistic meaning.
Underdetermination of Theory by Data
Quine's thesis that empirical data may be insufficient to determine a single theory. Multiple theories can explain the same data. This challenges the objectivity and determinacy of scientific theories.
Naturalized Epistemology
Quine's approach to epistemology which suggests that knowledge should be studied empirically, as a natural phenomenon. This has shifted the focus of epistemology from foundationism to a more scientific approach.
Gavagai
A thought experiment by Quine to illustrate the indeterminacy of translation. A native utters 'gavagai' upon seeing a rabbit, but the term could be translated in many valid ways. This challenges the one-to-one mapping between words and their meanings.
Ontological Relativity
The idea that a theory's ontology (what it says exists) can vary with one's language or conceptual scheme. It's significant because it challenges the notion that there is a unique correct ontology.
Word and Object
Quine's 1960 book where he further discusses topics such as the indeterminacy of translation, the inscrutability of reference, and radical translation. Its significance lays in a comprehensive critique of traditional notions of meaning and reference.
Two Dogmas of Empiricism
In this 1951 paper, Quine challenges the analytic/synthetic distinction and reductionism, emphasizing the holistic nature of language. Its significance lies in advocating for semantic and epistemological holism.
Reference and Modality
In this work, Quine criticizes the idea of necessary truth and discusses problems with reference in modal contexts. This challenges the metaphysical nature of modality and the reference of terms.
Quine's Criterion for Ontology
Quine's principle 'To be is to be the value of a variable' which suggests that what exists is what our best scientific theory says exists. It's significant for tying metaphysical questions of existence to scientific discourse.
Confirmation Holism
The idea that empirical evidence cannot confirm or refute individual hypotheses but only a whole theoretical network. This has significant consequences for the philosophy of science and the testing of theories.
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