Philosophy Program and Dean of the College Present
Standards (fa 法) and reference-fixing
Friday, March 31, 2017
Olin Humanities, Room 102
4:45 pm EDT/GMT-4
Susan M. Blake4:45 pm EDT/GMT-4
Indiana University
In this paper, I defend a particular reading of the term fa 法in the Warring States and early Han (approximately 475-140 BCE). Rather than reading the term to mean law, I argue for understanding it as standard. The use of fa to mean tool of measurement forms the basis of this reading, and provides reason for thinking that the definition of the term given in the Mohist Canons 墨經 captures its meaning across usages. This reading of the term is of philosophical importance because it allows us to understand the Mohists as presenting a theory of reference comparable to the causal theories of reference in contemporary analytic philosophy. I utilize the comparison between such theories to illuminate interesting possibilities for future research.
For more information, call 845-758-7208, or e-mail [email protected].
Time: 4:45 pm EDT/GMT-4
Location: Olin Humanities, Room 102