Abstract object theory

Abstract object theory is a branch of metaphysics regarding abstract objects. Originally devised by metaphysician Edward Zalta in 1999,[1] the theory was an expansion of mathematical Platonism.

Not to be confused with Object theory.

Abstract Objects: An Introduction to Axiomatic Metaphysics (1983) is the title of a publication by Edward Zalta that outlines abstract object theory.[2]

On Zalta's account, there are two modes of predication: some objects (the ordinary concrete ones around us, like tables and chairs) "exemplify" properties, while others (abstract objects like numbers, and what others would call "non-existent objects", like the round square, and the mountain made entirely of gold) merely "encode" them.[3] While the objects that exemplify properties are discovered through traditional empirical means, a simple set of axioms allows us to know about objects that encode properties.[4] For every set of properties, there is exactly one object that encodes exactly that set of properties and no others.[5] This allows for a formalized ontology.

See also

References
  1. Zalta, Edward N. (February 10, 1999). "The Theory of Abstract Objects". Retrieved March 29, 2013.
  2. Edward N. Zalta, Abstract Objects: An Introduction to Axiomatic Metaphysics. D. Reidel Publishing Company. 1983.
  3. Edward N. Zalta, Abstract Objects, 33.
  4. Edward N. Zalta, Abstract Objects, 36.
  5. Edward N. Zalta, Abstract Objects, 35.

Further reading
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