Sharif Digital Repository

The idea that the intentional states are essentially normative has been much discussed in the philosophies of mind and cognitive sciences in the past few decades. The main idea is that some norms are essentially engaged in constituting the nature of the intentional states. Reaching an accurate formulation of this thesis and arguing for and against it has sparked much disagreements among the proponents and the opponents alike. This dissertation makes the case for a particular version of this thesis, according to which the intentional states, particularly beliefs and intentions, are construed as theoretical and practical commitments. This is the view which has already been defended by several... 

This study re-examines the debate between scientific realism and anti-realism by exploring its connection to theories of meaning and reference. Initially, by distinguishing between the metaphysical and epistemological commitments of each side, we demonstrate that scientific realism is not merely an extension of common-sense understanding, but a position supported by profound philosophical arguments. Concurrently, the most significant anti-realist challenges _ranging from incommensurability and pessimistic meta-induction to the restriction of knowledge to the observable domain _are presented and evaluated. Subsequently, to elucidate the semantic backdrop of the debate, a critical overview of...