Arguments for an Alternative Account of Analyticity

Abstract

This dissertation presents an alternative account of analyticity, as well as arguments for that account. Although an analysis and interpretation of previous accounts of analyticity are presented, the focus is on the analysis of, and the arguments for a solution to, the philosophical problem of the existence of analyticities. The dissertation includes: (1) an initial argument for the philosophical significance of analyticity, (2) an exposition and analysis of the origins and variations of the analytic/synthetic distinction, (3) a presentation of the conventionalist accounts of analyticity, (4) an in-depth analysis of Quine's arguments against the analytic/synthetic distinction, and responses to these arguments, and (5) the alternative account of analyticity along with the status and implications of analyticity, concluding with the arguments for the notion of analyticity offered in this account.