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Primitive representation and misrepresentation

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Abstract

This paper develops a statistical approach to the problem of primitive representation. Representation of the kind commonly attributed to litmus paper, fuel gauges and tree rings occurs when, so to speak, there is a sufficiently good correlation between two variables. The fundamental distinction between misrepresentation and non-representation is explained in terms of the notion of an informationally useful correlation. The paper further argues that the statistical approach satisfactorily resolves well known puzzles such as Fodor's disjunction problem.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Dept of Philosophy, University of Manitoba, Canada

    Ken Warmbrōd

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  1. Ken Warmbrōd
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Warmbrōd, K. Primitive representation and misrepresentation. Topoi 11, 89–101 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00768301

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00768301

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