Bare Demontratives, Non-Referentialism and The Logical Challenge

Presented by Jan Heylen (KU Leuven) and J.P. Smit (Stellenboch University)

There are different theories about the semantic referents of bare demontratives. Smit (2012) has argued that it is a conquence of the standard view of communication and efficiency considerations that bare demontratives do not have a semantic referent. This does not bar successful communication with bare demontratives. In this paper we will develop a neutral free logic for bare demontratives, which combines the non-referentialism about bare demontratives with the “No Input, No Output”-principle. It will be explained how this logic can deal with empty domains, what the preferred notion of validity is, and how to develop an elegant natural deduction system. Then we will discuss the logical challenge both in terms of the formal semantics and in terms of the standard view of communication. If time permits, we will also talk about complex demontratives.

Zoom Link: https://lingnan.zoom.us/j/91761022322