W. V. O. Quine
|
W. V. O. Quine | |
|
| |
| Born | 25 June 1908 |
| Died | 25 December 2000 |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Philosopher; logician |
| Known for | Critique of analyticity; naturalized epistemology; philosophy of language |
| Notable work | Word and Object; From a Logical Point of View; Quine–Duhem thesis |
W. V. O. Quine was a philosopher and logician whose work addressed logic, language, and knowledge. He is associated with challenges to distinctions between analytic and synthetic statements and with approaches that integrate philosophy with empirical science.
His work reflects sustained revision of earlier assumptions within analytic philosophy rather than adherence to a fixed theoretical framework.
Early life and education
Quine was born in Akron, Ohio. He studied mathematics and philosophy at Oberlin College and later at Harvard University, where he completed his doctorate.
His early work developed in engagement with formal logic and the philosophy of mathematics.
Work in logic
Quine contributed to mathematical logic, set theory, and proof theory. He emphasized formal rigor and developed systems intended to minimize ontological commitments.
His logical work intersected with broader philosophical questions concerning reference and existence.
Critique of analyticity
In “Two Dogmas of Empiricism” (1951), Quine questioned the distinction between analytic and synthetic truths. He argued that statements face empirical testing not individually but as part of interconnected systems of belief.
This position challenged assumptions common in logical empiricism.
Naturalized epistemology
Quine proposed that epistemology should be treated as part of empirical psychology rather than as a purely normative or foundational discipline. He examined how knowledge is acquired using methods continuous with natural science.
This approach reframed traditional epistemological questions.
Philosophy of language
Quine addressed meaning, translation, and reference, introducing the thesis of the indeterminacy of translation. He argued that multiple incompatible translation manuals could fit the same behavioral data.
These arguments questioned the determinacy of meaning.
Relationship to institutions
Quine spent most of his academic career at Harvard University, where he taught and published extensively. He maintained professional connections across logic, linguistics, and philosophy.
He participated actively in academic exchange without forming a distinct school.
Limits and uncertainty
Quine’s rejection of analyticity and his naturalized epistemology have been contested. Critics question whether his framework adequately accounts for normativity and meaning.
Interpretations of his positions vary across contexts.
Status
W. V. O. Quine is regarded as a major figure in twentieth-century analytic philosophy. His work continues to be discussed in philosophy of language, logic, and epistemology.