16 APhEx num 16, anno 2017

The Continuum Hypothesis, formulated by Cantor in 1878, is one of the most renowned open conjectures in set theory. Already in 1900, the Continuum Problem appeared in Hilbert's famous list of the most important unsolved problems in mathematics. As a consequence of the proof of the independence of the Continuum Hypothesis from ZFC, the current status of the Continuum Problem is controversial. In more recent times, the search for a solution to the problem has been one of the main thrusts of the search for new axioms in mathematics. The article provides a description of the most fundamental mathematical results, as well as an examination of the philosophical issues related to the Continuum Problem.

This text discusses some of the papers recently published in the volume "Ermeneutica, Estetica, Ontologia," T. Andina and C. Barbero (eds.), by discussing some of their connections with M. Ferraris’ philosophy.

The purpose of this essay is to provide an informal introduction to lambda calculus with glimpses upon some of the many influences it has had on the recent development of computer science. Our desire is to awaken the curiosity of the reader towards the insights which, in the best case, could lead to the undertaking of further research  in a field still ripe with unexplored possibilities.

There are various ways to be referentialists on singular terms: The issue has been treated in many different ways. By comparing denotation and reference, we will make clear with which expressions one can refer to something, and how, and we will note that the features of reference outlined by this distinction do not necessarily coexist in referential theories. We will focus on three main themes: The satisfaction of a predicate to talk of a specific object, the world-language direction of fit, and the necessity of use of a referential expression.

In his book "Naturalism. Philosophy, Science, Mythology", Federico Laudisa provides a valuable critical excursus on naturalism and articulates his personal critical view of this family of theories. First of all, Laudisa affirms that naturalism is based on the assumption of a clear distinction between philosophy and science, which is now considered unfounded. Second, Laudisa advocates the heritage of classical philosophers, whose vision of the relationship between conceptual analysis and empirical support was not yet influenced by a certain monolotic modern conception of science. In this essay, we analyze the most significant claims in the book and suggest future developments for this line of research.

The paper discusses Andrea Moro’s book entitled I confini di Babele. Il cervello e il mistero delle lingue impossibili (The Boundaries of Babel. The Brain and the Enigma of Impossible Languages), published in its second edition in 2015 by Il Mulino. The book represents a lucid introduction to a biolinguistics perspective, enriched by Moro’s pioneering researches. Moro in his book shows the existence of (a) a neural network selectively dedicated to the processing of syntactic data and (b) boundaries biologically determined and imposed to a linguistic variation. Thus, he argues for the legitimacy of an interdisciplinary approach to the study of language, bringing some evidence for an empirical foundation of biolinguistics.

The article presents a brief and critical introduction to Michael Thompson, Professor at the University of Pittsburg and author of the book «Life and Action. Elementary Structures of Practice and Practical Thought» (Thompson, 2008). In particular, the profile aims at grasping the main issues underlying Thompson's thought with a specific focus on the agency and its representation in the logic form of judgment. Thus, concepts such as agency, social practice and life form will be investigated as the metaphysical and epistemic foundations of the practical reflection developed by the philosopher in view of a new ethical project.