Frege's Theory of Sense and Reference: Its Origin and Scope (Modern European Philosophy)

Gottlob Frege has exerted an enormous influence on the evolution of twentieth-century philosophy, yet the real significance of that influence is still very much a matter of debate. This book provides a completely new and systematic account of Frege's philosophy by focusing on its cornerstone: the theory of sense and reference.Two features distinguish this study from other books on Frege. First, sense and reference are placed absolutely at the core of Frege's work; the author shows that no adequate account of the theory can avoid analyzing the notion of thought that undergirds it, or explaining how it has clarified our concept of judgment. Second, the theory is situated within the development of Frege's thought; the author reveals how the theory caused Frege to alter many of his fundamental views. In doing so, the author presents a clear picture of the problems the theory was intended to solve, and sharply delineates the characteristic features of Frege's philosophy.By setting the theory of sense and reference in this broader context, Professor Carl shows that it has distinctively Kantian roots and belongs to the field of epistemology. His position challenges the traditional view of Frege as principally a philosopher of language.This study represents a major reassessment of a seminal figure in the history of philosophy, and it will be of particular interest to philosophers concerned with language and epistemology. Wolfgang Carl. Includes Bibliographical References (p. 212-215) And Index.