Emil Rahmankulov's presentation on the topic "The Logical-Grammatical Theory in G. Dalgarno's Universal Language Project."

On January 24, a theoretical seminar "Formal Philosophy" took place, where Emil Rakhmankulov presented his research on the topic "The Logical-Grammatical Theory in G. Dalgarno's Universal Language Project."

Abstract

Projects to create a universal language were commonplace in 17th-century philosophical discourse. However, very few philosophers attempted to actually construct such a language. One of the scholars who created a universal philosophical language was the Scottish linguist George Dalgarno. In 1661, Dalgarno published the treatise "The Art of Signs," which outlines the principles of his a priori artificial language, intended to become not only a universal means of communication but also a tool for philosophy and logic. The most interesting feature of Dalgarno's project is its eclecticism. Combining concepts from different traditions, Dalgarno offers a unique theory of universal grammar. Despite the hybrid nature of the project, it is possible to identify the leading method that guided the linguist in creating his language — the philosophical language was based on Aristotelian theory of categories, which structured its lexicon. The presentation will examine how philosophical traditions preceding and contemporary to Dalgarno influenced his concept. Special attention will be paid to Dalgarno's logical theory, which forms the grammar of the philosophical language.