ED ZALTA’S VERSION OF NEO-LOGICISM – A FRIENDLY LETTER OF COMPLAINT

Abstract

This paper discusses Bernard Linsky and Edward Zalta’s Neo-Logicist programme. In the first section we offer a brief summary of the formal framework – third order object theory – in which a mathematical theory is to be embedded. The second section focuses on their claim that mathematics can be known by re-interpreting it within that formal framework. We argue that they fail to offer a satisfying explanation of mathematical knowledge. The third section discusses their conception of mathematical truth and highlights various shortcomings for their view. In the concluding section we argue that their approach should not to be regarded as a Neo-Logicist project.