Nelson Goodman
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Nelson Goodman | |
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| Born | 7 August 1906 |
| Died | 25 November 1998 |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Philosopher |
| Known for | Problem of induction; philosophy of language; philosophy of art |
| Notable work | Fact, Fiction, and Forecast; Ways of Worldmaking |
Nelson Goodman (7 August 1906 – 25 November 1998) was a philosopher whose work addressed induction, language, symbolism, and the construction of conceptual systems. He examined how classification, description, and representation operate across science, art, and everyday discourse.
His work emphasized analysis of symbolic practices rather than appeal to underlying metaphysical structures.
Early life and education
Goodman was born in Somerville, Massachusetts. He studied philosophy at Harvard University, completing his doctorate after interruptions related to business activity and military service.
His academic background combined formal philosophy with practical engagement outside the university.
Problem of induction
Goodman is known for reformulating the problem of induction through the “new riddle of induction.” He introduced predicates such as “grue” to illustrate how inductive inferences depend on entrenched linguistic practices rather than purely logical form.
This argument challenged accounts that treat induction as rule-governed independently of language.
Philosophy of language
Goodman examined how symbols function in describing and organizing experience. He rejected sharp distinctions between factual description and other forms of representation.
His work treated meaning as dependent on systems of use rather than correspondence to reality.
Philosophy of art
Goodman addressed representation, notation, and authenticity in the arts. He analyzed how artworks function as symbols and how artistic practices employ structured systems comparable to languages.
These ideas were developed in works such as Languages of Art.
Worldmaking
In Ways of Worldmaking (1978), Goodman argued that different symbolic systems construct different versions of the world. He treated these versions as neither mere fictions nor direct mirrors of reality.
This position reframed debates about realism and relativism.
Relationship to institutions
Goodman taught at several American universities, including Harvard University. He was involved in interdisciplinary work connecting philosophy, art theory, and education.
He did not establish a single doctrinal school.
Limits and uncertainty
Goodman’s views on relativism and worldmaking have been interpreted in conflicting ways. Critics question whether his framework adequately constrains competing symbolic systems.
There is no consensus on how his account avoids arbitrariness.
Status
Nelson Goodman is regarded as a significant figure in twentieth-century analytic philosophy. His work continues to be discussed in philosophy of language, epistemology, and aesthetics.