Object recognition and content. Issue 2 (8th December 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: SÁNCHEZ, LYDIA; CAMPOS, MANUEL
• Is Part Of: Empedocles. Volume 2:Issue 2(2011)
• Page Start: 207
• Page End: 226
• Publication Date: 2011-12-08
• Subjects: Communication -- Philosophy -- Periodicals; 302.201
• DOI: 10.1386/ejpc.2.2.207_1
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-1952

Abstract

Puzzles concerning attitude reports are at the origin of traditional theories of content. According to most of these theories, content has to involve some sort of conceptual entities, like senses, which determine reference. Conceptual views, however, have been challenged by direct reference theories and informational perspectives on content. In this paper we lay down the central elements of the more relevant strategies for solving cognitive puzzles. We then argue that the best solution available to those who maintain a view of content as truth conditions is to abandon the idea that content is the only element of mental attitudes that can make a difference as to the truth value of attitude reports. We finally resort to means of recognition of objects as one obvious element that helps explain differences in attitudes.