Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: How to understand definitions of polysemous concepts in the sciences has generated significant philosophical debate. In this paper, I extend pragmatist and inferentialist theories of scientific concepts to definitions and propose a processual approach to definitions, which views definitions as consisting of the activity of defining. I develop this into a specific framework called ‘the multiplex theory’ according to which defining is an organized process by which concept users integrate semantic resources into certain tasks in a way that regulates and develops the meaning of the concept. The theory is then exemplified by applying it to a case study in the origins-of-life debate.
Author: Sebastian Sander-Oest
Institution: University of Oslo
Language: English
Subfield: History and Philosophy of Science
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $2,190
OpenAlex ID: W7204450397