Whitehead's Radical Proposition Theory
explain whitehead's theory of propositions and what makes it so radical compared to mainstream analytic philosophy.
Whitehead's theory of propositions, as delineated in "Process and Reality," presents a radical departure from the conventional understanding in mainstream analytic philosophy. Typically, propositions in the realm of analytic philosophy are understood as abstract, logical entities primarily concerned with truth-value—whether they are true or false. These propositions are often dissected and analyzed within a strictly logical framework, emphasizing their role in arguments, judgments, and rational thought processes.
In contrast, Whitehead's theory emphasizes propositions as playing a far broader and more dynamic role in the universe. He posits that the primary function of a proposition is not merely to serve as a logical entity but to be relevant as a "lure for feeling." This means that propositions, in Whitehead's view, are fundamentally tied to experience and emotion. They are seen as data for feelings, where the subjective forms of these feelings can range widely—from the enjoyment of humor to feelings of horror, disgust, or indignation.
This approach is radical because it extends the scope of propositions beyond the narrow confines of logical analysis and truth-values, situating them within the lived, emotional experiences of subjects. Instead of being static, abstract entities, propositions in Whitehead's philosophy become dynamic and integral to the process of experiencing and interpreting the world. They are deeply intertwined with the 'subjective aim' of a subject, influencing and shaping the process of self-creation and the realization of experiences. This holistic view contrasts sharply with the more analytical, detached perspective of mainstream analytic philosophy, where the emotional and experiential aspects of propositions are typically not the central focus【16†source】.
how does Whitehead nonetheless defend a correspondence theory of truth?
Alfred North Whitehead, in his "Process and Reality," upholds a correspondence theory of truth, albeit with a distinctive twist that aligns with his broader philosophical system. This theory suggests that the truth or falsehood of propositions corresponds to how things are in reality. However, Whitehead makes a crucial distinction between propositions and judgments, which is central to understanding his version of the correspondence theory.
In Whitehead's framework, a proposition can be true or false. This is where the correspondence theory applies, as a proposition is considered true if it corresponds to the actual state of affairs in the universe. The correspondence theory here maintains the traditional notion that truth is a matter of a proposition mirroring or reflecting reality.
On the other hand, a judgment, which is a feeling in the process of the judging subject, can be correct or incorrect, or even suspended. This distinction introduces an element of subjectivity and process into the act of judgment. In Whitehead's organic philosophy, a judgment is correct or incorrect with respect to the subject making that judgment. It becomes a part of the subjective experience of that subject and can only be evaluated in terms of future judgments by actual entities. This aspect of his theory reflects the coherence theory, where the correctness of a judgment is determined by its coherence with other judgments within the context of the subject's experience.
Therefore, while Whitehead defends a correspondence theory of truth for propositions, he simultaneously integrates it with a coherence theory for judgments. This integration reflects his broader philosophical commitment to an organic, process-oriented view of reality, where the static nature of propositions (in terms of truth and falsehood) is complemented by the dynamic, subjective, and processual nature of judgments【22†source】.