Concept formation

Cumby, Jill N. (2005) Concept formation. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

[English] PDF - Accepted Version Available under License - The author retains copyright ownership and moral rights in this thesis. Neither the thesis nor substantial extracts from it may be printed or otherwise reproduced without the author's permission. Download (2MB)

Abstract

In chapter one I present Heinrich Rickert's theory of concept formation. Influenced by Kant, Rickert develops a transcendental account of meaning and argues that while we can demarcate between various methods for forming valid concepts, all of these are scientific. -- In chapter two I present W.B. Gallie's theory of essentially contested concepts. Gallie argues that meaning develops historically, or contingently, in relation to the diverse ends that structure human action. He nevertheless maintains that concepts can be theoretically justified as valid. -- In chapter three I argue that Gallie's philosophy is preferable to Rickert's. First, I criticize Rickert for denying social history. Second, I praise Gallie for arguing that imagination plays an essential role in the development of valid concepts. I go on to make the original suggestion that Gallie's epistemology is based on an interpretation of Peirce's pragmatism.

Actions (login required)

View Item