1468-0114/asset/PAPQ_centre.gif?v=1&s=e84ad797c41b896ac6e6cd4fc5a4a6abb1f43e79)
The Semantics of Fictional Names
Article first published online: 17 DEC 2002
DOI: 10.1111/1468-0114.00032
1997 University of Southern California and Blackwell Publishers Ltd.
1468-0114/asset/cover.gif?v=1&s=098cb6eb84e466c9544dce6dfe01d51a6ebe27c7 "Pacific Philosophical Quarterly")
Additional Information
How to Cite
Adams, F., Fuller, G. and Stecker, R. (1997), The Semantics of Fictional Names. Pacific Philosophical Quarterly, 78: 128–148. doi: 10.1111/1468-0114.00032
Publication History
- Issue published online: 17 DEC 2002
- Article first published online: 17 DEC 2002
- Abstract
- Cited By
Abstract: In this paper we defend a direct reference theory of names. We maintain that the meaning of a name is its bearer. In the case of vacuous names, there is no bearer and they have no meaning. We develop a unified theory of names such that one theory applies to names whether they occur within or outside fiction. Hence, we apply our theory to sentences containing names within fiction, sentences about fiction or sentences making comparisons across fictions. We then defend our theory against objections and compare our view to the views of Currie, Walton, and others.