Logic and Theory of Representation

Abstract

Underlying the theory of inferences, a primary task of logic is language analysis. Such a task can be understood as depending on a general theory of representation, taking as a starting point the idea that some entities (‘representations’) can present some entities (‘contents’). We outline a theory of representation accounting for the capacity of representational systems to access universes that extend beyond an immediate presence. We define three logical properties that any adequate representational system should have: completeness, faithfulness and coherence. We show that logical laws are laws of representation. Finally, it appears that logic can be considered as the abstract theory of representation.