Blackwell Reference Online

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P hilosophy of language, philosophy of science, philosophy of mathematics The terms naming abstract entities , such as “natural number,” “real number,” “class,” or “property.” Different abstract terms can name the same abstract entity, and abstract terms can be either singular or general. Such terms have been used in mathematics and physics. In relation to the problem of the ontological status of abstract entities, it is also disputed whether the use of these terms will indicate the truth of Platonic realism. For according to Quine 's theory, to admit names of abstract entities commits us to the existence of the abstract entities named by them. “The distinction between meaning and naming is no less important at the level of abstract terms.” Quine, From a Logical Point of View ... log in or subscribe to read full text