Closed Structure

Abstract According to the structured theory of propositions, if two sentences express same proposition, then they have syntactic structure, with corresponding constituents expressing entities. A number philosophers recently focused attention on a powerful argument against this theory, based result by Bertrand Russell, which shows that propositions is inconsistent in higher order-logic. This paper explores response argument, involves restricting scope claim are structured, so it does not hold for all whatsoever, but only those expressible using closed given formal language. We call restricted principle Closed Structure , and show consistent classical higher-order logic. As schematic principle, strength dependent chosen For its consistency be philosophically significant, also needs every extension language theorist apt accept. But, we go show, fact very natural standard logic, adds resources plural talk propositions. conclude particular strategy compelling Russell’s result, though note some applications, instance propositional attitudes, thesis vicinity may promise.