Taking truth seriously: the case of generics

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Abstract

By discussing a large number of different examples, this paper argues that the class of so-called generic statements is much more heterogeneous that is usually recognized in the contemporary debate. It is claimed that the theoretical tendency towards overgeneralization or homogenization makes it impossible to adequately understand how generic statements function in language and to handle the dangers involved in generics that express and promote social stereotypes and prejudices. It is also argued that such overgeneralization involves what J. L. Austin described as the “fetishizing” of the true/false distinction. Several influential theories are criticized, including Sterken’s error theory, Leslie’s conception of weak generics, and the idea that generics involve loose talk.

Original languageEnglish
Article number3
Number of pages28
JournalSynthese
Volume202
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2023
MoE publication typeA1 Journal article-refereed

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