Dissertation, Bogazici University (
2014)
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Abstract
The principal question addressed is whether there is a division among common
nouns which is similar to a familiar division among noun phrases that designate
particular-level individuals: the one which is captured in the relevant literature
as the difference between de jure rigid and not de jure rigid singular terms. In
relation with the previous philosophical literature relevant to noun rigidity it is
argued that the extant positions on the matter are not defended on the basis of
well-founded syntactic categories and proper semantic arguments. Proper ways
to argue for rigidity ascriptions to nouns are described. Then, such arguments
are sought for the case of rigid/non-rigid division among count common nouns.
It is shown that there are plausible, albeit inconclusive, reasons to hold that
among common nouns (N-bar expressions) only simple common nouns are kind
designators, and that if that is the case these simple common nouns will have to
be reckoned as de jure rigid designators.