Logical Deducibility and Logicality in 1837

Roski, Stefan

Abstract

This paper investigates Bolzano’s views on the distinction between logical and non-logical notions. Even though it is crucial for Bolzano’s definitions of logical consequence and logical analyticity, his remarks on how the distinction is to be drawn are few and far between. Bolzano’s adherence to a traditional, pre-Fregean syntax, complicates interpreting these remarks even further. The paper offers an interpretation of the remarks on which they suggest that Bolzano identified logicality with topic-neutrality. It further discusses Bolzano’s views on the systematic relevance of the notion of logical consequence.