The article presents several adaptive fuzzy hedge logics. These logics are designed to perform a specific kind of hedge detection. Given a premise set Γ that represents a series of communicated statements, the logics can check whether some predicate occurring in Γ may be interpreted as being (implicitly) hedged by technically, strictly speaking or loosely speaking, or simply non-hedged. The logics take into account both the logical constraints of the premise set as well as conceptual information concerning the meaning of (...) potentially hedged predicates (stored in the memory of the interpreter in question). The proof theory of the logics is non-monotonic in order to enable the logics to deal with possible non-monotonic interpretation dynamics (this is illustrated by means of several concrete proofs). All the adaptive fuzzy hedge logics are also sound and strongly complete with respect to their [0,1]-semantics. (shrink)

In this paper, we present a generic format for adaptive vague logics. Logics based on this format are able to (1) identify sentences as vague or non-vague in light of a given set of premises, and to (2) dynamically adjust the possible set of inferences in accordance with these identifications, i.e. sentences that are identified as vague allow only for the application of vague inference rules and sentences that are identified as non-vague also allow for the application of some extra (...) set of classical logic rules. The generic format consists of a set of minimal criteria that must be satisfied by the vague logic in casu in order to be usable as a basis for an adaptive vague logic. The criteria focus on the way in which the logic deals with a special ⊡-operator. Depending on the kind of logic for vagueness that is used as a basis for the adaptive vague logic, this operator can be interpreted as completely true, definitely true, clearly true, etc. It is proven that a wide range of famous logics for vagueness satisfies these criteria when extended with a specific ⊡-operator, e.g. fuzzy basic logic and its well known extensions, cf. [7], super- and subvaluationist logics, cf. [6], [9], and clarity logic, cf. [13]. Also a fuzzy logic is presented that can be used for an adaptive vague logic that can deal with higher-order vagueness. To illustrate the theory, some toy-examples of adaptive vague proofs are provided. (shrink)

The article presents several adaptive fuzzy hedge logics. These logics are designed to perform a specific kind of hedge detection. Given a premise set Γ that represents a series of communicated statements, the logics can check whether some predicate occurring in Γ may be interpreted as being (implicitly) hedged by technically, strictly speaking or loosely speaking, or simply non-hedged. The logics take into account both the logical constraints of the premise set as well as conceptual information concerning the meaning of (...) potentially hedged predicates (stored in the memory of the interpreter in question). The proof theory of the logics is non-monotonic in order to enable the logics to deal with possible non-monotonic interpretation dynamics (this is illustrated by means of several concrete proofs). All the adaptive fuzzy hedge logics are also sound and strongly complete with respect to their [0,1]-semantics. (shrink)

The article presents several adaptive fuzzy hedge logics . These logics are designed to perform a specific kind of hedge detection. Given a premise set Γ that represents a series of communicated statements, the logics can check whether some predicate occurring in Γ may be interpreted as being (implicitly) hedged by technically , strictly speaking or loosely speaking , or simply non-hedged. The logics take into account both the logical constraints of the premise set as well as conceptual information concerning (...) the meaning of potentially hedged predicates (stored in the memory of the interpreter in question). The proof theory of the logics is non-monotonic in order to enable the logics to deal with possible non-monotonic interpretation dynamics (this is illustrated by means of several concrete proofs). All the adaptive fuzzy hedge logics are also sound and strongly complete with respect to their [0,1]-semantics. (shrink)

In this paper, we present a generic format for adaptive vague logics. Logics based on this format are able to (1) identify sentences as vague or non-vague in light of a given set of premises, and to (2) dynamically adjust the possible set of inferences in accordance with these identifications, i.e. sentences that are identified as vague allow only for the application of vague inference rules and sentences that are identified as non-vague also allow for the application of some extra (...) set of classical logic rules. The generic format consists of a set of minimal criteria that must be satisfied by the vague logic in casu in order to be usable as a basis for an adaptive vague logic. The criteria focus on the way in which the logic deals with a special ⊡-operator. Depending on the kind of logic for vagueness that is used as a basis for the adaptive vague logic, this operator can be interpreted as completely true, definitely true, clearly true , etc. It is proven that a wide range of famous logics for vagueness satisfies these criteria when extended with a specific ⊡-operator, e.g. fuzzy basic logic and its well known extensions, cf. [7], super- and subvaluationist logics, cf. [6], [9], and clarity logic, cf. [13]. Also a fuzzy logic is presented that can be used for an adaptive vague logic that can deal with higher-order vagueness. To illustrate the theory, some toy-examples of adaptive vague proofs are provided. (shrink)

Both the concept of a Darwinian tree of life (TOL) and the possibility of its accurate reconstruction have been much criticized. Criticisms mostly revolve around the extensive occurrence of lateral gene transfer (LGT), instances of uptake of complete organisms to become organelles (with the associated subsequent gene transfer to the nucleus), as well as the implications of more subtle aspects of the biological species concept. Here we argue that none of these criticisms are sufficient to abandon the valuable TOL concept (...) and the biological realities it captures. Especially important is the need to conceptually distinguish between organismal trees and gene trees, which necessitates incorporating insights of widely occurring LGT into modern evolutionary theory. We demonstrate that all criticisms, while based on important new findings, do not invalidate the TOL. After considering the implications of these new insights, we find that the contours of evolution are best represented by a TOL. (shrink)

This article reflects a conversation between Jan G. van der Watt and Stephan Joubert. The article serves as the introduction to the Special Collection: ‘From timely exegesis to contemporary ecclesiology: Relevant hermeneutics and provocative embodiment of faith in a Corona-defined world – Festschrift for Stephan Joubert, sub-edited by Willem Oliver ’. Following a brief bio-statement as introduction, the following issues are discussed: the collection for the Jerusalem church; relevance of theology for society; social-scientific exegesis; the ancient concept of (...) grace; Bible translation in South Africa; public theology on the electronic platform; biblical examples of leadership and electronic media in religious activities and education.Contribution: This Festschrift represents current trends in biblical scholarship and ecclesial leadership. It contributes to the public discourse in church and society, especially the role of the electronic media in current Fourth Industrial Revolution. (shrink)

The social construction of reality is influenced extensively by the mass media. Commercialised images of masculinity, including discourses to interpret it, are continuously reflected and/or created by sources of mass media, in a myriad of ways. These images are subjectively loaded, but still effectively communicate to us, and even entice and persuade us. It furthermore wields extensive power over men - especially over their self-images, passions, and egos. In this article, dominating images and discourses concerning manhood and male identity - (...) particularly those displayed in men's health magazines - were critically examined. This was done through a thematic analysis of 123 issues of MHM cover pages. The investigation showed that MHM is infused with traditional masculine ideology. Moreover, MHM fails to confront discourses that endorse hegemonic masculinity, for the sake of holistic health. It was suggested that a sober, precautionary, health strategy should challenge men to critically engage with MHM's reigning creed: 'big, hard and up'. This creed incites a utilitarian view of sexuality within a culture of performance-driven masculinity, which subsequently fuels anxieties that can lead to unhealthy issues, such as body image dissatisfaction. From a pastoral care perspective, it was asserted that Christian men need to search for alternative ways to instigate their capacity to experience and facilitate authentic intimacy, in order to work toward the social construction of more balanced and healthy discourses on male identity. (shrink)

Human Biological Materials (HBMs) are an invaluable resource in biomedical research.ObjectiveTo determine if researchers and a Research Ethics Committee (REC) at a South African institution addressed ethical issues pertaining to HBMs in collaborative research with developed countries.Study DesignEthically approved retrospective cross‐sectional descriptive audit.ResultsOf the 1305 protocols audited, 151 (11.57%) fulfilled the study's inclusion criteria. Compared to other developed countries, a majority of sponsors (90) were from the USA (p = 0.0001). The principle investigators (PIs) in all 151 protocols informed the (...) REC of their intent to store HBMs. Only 132 protocols informed research participants (P < 0.0001). In 148 protocols informed consent (IC) was obtained from research participants, 116 protocols (76.8%) solicited broad consent compared to specific consent (32; 21.2%) [p < 0.0001]. In 105 cases a code was used to maintain confidentiality. HBMs were anonymised in 14 protocols [p < 0.0001]. More protocols informed the REC (90) than the research participants (67) that HBMs would be exported (p = 0.011). Export permits (EPs) and Material Transfer Agreements (MTAs) were not available in 109 and 143 protocols, respectively.ConclusionsResearchers and the REC did not adequately address the inter‐related ethical and regulatory issues pertaining to HBMs. There was a lack of congruence between the ethical guidelines of developed countries and their actions which are central to the access to HBMs in collaborative research. HBMs may be leaving South Africa without EPs and MTAs during the process of international collaborative research. (shrink)

Developmental research suggests that young children tend to value dominant individuals over subordinates. This research, however, has nearly exclusively been carried out in Western cultures, and cross-cultural research among adults has revealed cultural differences in the valuing of dominance. In particular, it seems that Japanese culture, relative to many Western cultures, values dominance less. We conducted two experiments to test whether this difference would be observed in preschoolers. In Experiment 1, preschoolers in France and in Japan were asked to identify (...) with either a dominant or a subordinate. French preschoolers identified with the dominant, but Japanese preschoolers were at chance. Experiment 2 revealed that Japanese preschoolers were more likely to believe a subordinate than a dominant individual, both compared to chance and compared to previous findings among French preschoolers. The convergent results from both experiments thus reveal an early emerging cross-cultural difference in the valuing of dominance. (shrink)

Seit dem Auftreten von Emmanuel Levinas ist die Frage hinsichtlich einer Deformalisierung der Ethik wieder aktuell geworden. Es liegt vor der Hand, Levinas' Fundamentalethik mit der Kants zu vergleichen. — Worin besteht der vielbesprochene „Formalismus” der Kantschen Moral? Keinesfalls kann von einer gänzlichen Verkennung der inhaltlichen Bestimmungsgründe des Willens die Rede sein. Eher könnte man darauf hinweisen, dasz Kant die Verwurzelung gewisser kategorischer Imperative in typischen sozial-historischen gesellschaftlichen Strukturen zu wenig Gewicht beigemessen hat. Auch die Problematik der asymmetrischen Beziehungen, der (...) Beziehungen, die für „ Gemeinschaft” (im Gegensatz zu „Gesellschaft”) typisch sind, ist ihm entgangen. — Der Verfasser erörtert ferner die Frage, ob Kant gut daran getan hat, seine Tugend-und Pflichtenlehre in einem gewissen Parallelismus mit seiner Rechtslehre zu entwickeln. Er vergleicht den Begriff der „Pflicht” mit dem des „Opfers”, wobei er unter letzterem die spontane Opferwilligkeit versteht, die sich nicht an die Grenzen der formalen Schuldigkeit hält. Vielleicht besteht das primäre ethische Phänomen darin, dasz ich ursprünglich bereit bin, Verantwortung für meinen Nächsten zu tragen. Der Nächste ist dabei jeweils ein Einziger, und zwar ein Einziger in Bezug auf mich. Ueberdies ist jedes Opfer bereits infolge der Temporalität meines Daseins einmalig und nicht wiederholbar. Die unmittelbare Bereitschaft, für den Nächsten in die Bresche zu springen, ist Levinas zufolge die vorreflexive Grundlage, auf der jedes Moralsystem beruht. Levinas' Ethik underscheidet sich insoferne von der Kants, als der erstere in der Unizität des Nächsten und der einzigartigen Verantwortung für ihn ein Absolutum sieht, letzterer dagegen in der Universalität und Notwendigkeit ethischer Pflichterfüllung. Ferner beruft sich der französische Denker in erster Instanz auf die Unmittelbarkeit der sittlichen Erfahrung, während Kant mit moralischen Reflexionsbegriffen arbeitet. — Der Verfasser führt zuletzt den Nachweis, dasz Kant dem Gesichtspunkt der Deformalisierung mitunter Rechnung trägt, freilich um den Preis gewisser Inkonsequenzen. (shrink)

In einer Reihe von philosophischen Meditationen setzt sich der Verfasser mit dem im modernen gesellschaftlichen Leben so schmerzlich empfundenen Mangel an Intimität auseinander und mit dem verschiedenen Versuchen, diesem Übel abzuhelfen. Das Buch des Flamen Van Ussel „Intimiteit” bildet seinen Ausgangspunkt. Sorgfältig abwägende kritische Betrachtungen bieten dem Verfasser Gelegenheit, Probleme zu behandeln, die indirekt mit der Initimität zusammenhängen und dabei der Sichtweise einiger bedeutender Philosophen und Humanwissenschaftler Rechnung zu tragen : Probleme, die u. a. die menschliche Leiblichkeit, das Wohnen und (...) die Institutionalisierung menschlicher Beziehungen betreffen. Auch die Frage, ob Scham eine Art Schuldgefühl ist, das mittels Psychotherapie eliminiert werden soll, oder ein natürlicher Schutz der Intimität, wird erörtert. - Mit der letzten Meditation begibt sich der Verfasser auf das Gebiet der Ethik. Van Ussel ist ja auf der Suche nach „alternative Formen des Zusammenleben”, die an die Stelle der „bürgerlichen Familie” treten sollen. Die philosophische Frage wird diskutiert, was in diesem Zusammenhang die Begriffe „ alternativ” und „bürgerlich” eigentlich bedeuten. Ist eine rein ethische Kritik der „bürgerlichen Einstellung” möglich ? Ist eine Ethik denkbar, die die bürgerliche Moral transzendiert, ohne sie zu verwerfen ? (shrink)

Die im ersten Band der „Werke” Bubers unter dem Titel „Schriften zur Philosophie” herausgegebenen Publikationen behandeln vielfach Probleme der Theologie, der Mystik, der Erziehungswissenschaften, Psychologie, Psychotherapie, Soziologie und Politik. Der Verfasser fragt sich, ob dieser heterogenen Vielfalt eine gedankliche Einheit innewohnt. Wenn man grundsätzlich zwischen Religionsphilosophie und Theologie unterscheidet, wenn man ferner annimmt, dasz die Philosophie sich auf ein Feld nichtphilosophischer Erfahrungen besinnen kann, ohne darum ihren philosophischen Charakter einzubüszen, dann kann diese Frage bejaht werden. Allerdings trägt Bubers philosophische Besinnung (...) dem empirischen Charakter von Soziologie, Psychologie, Erziehungswissenschaft in keiner Weise Rechnung. - Der Verfasser trachtet an der Hand der wichtigsten „Schriften” nachzuweisen, dasz ihre Einheit aus existentiellen Eindrücken des jungen Buber erwächst : in negativer Hinsicht aus seiner Ablehnung der liberalen Gesellschaftsordnung, in positiver aus seiner begeisterten Hinwendung zu einer - im weitesten Sinne - „religiös” inspirierten Gemeinschaft. (shrink)

Tim French, Wiebe van der Hoek, Petar Iliev and Barteld Kooi. Succinctness of Epistemic Languages. In: T. Walsh (editor). Proceedings of the Twenty-Second International Joint Conference on Artificial Intelligence (IJCAI-11), pp. 881-886, AAAI Press, Menlo Park.

Should the U.N. Security Council use its coercive powers to bring about effective climate change mitigation? This question remains relevant considering the inadequate mitigation goals set by the signatories of the Paris Climate Accord and the ramifications of U.S. withdrawal from the Accord. This paper argues that the option of the unsc coercing climate change mitigation through military action, or the threat thereof, is morally flawed and ultimately antithetical to effectively addressing climate change. This assessment is based significantly on the (...) application of jus ad bellum principles of just war theory, incorporating some feminist critiques of this theory. (shrink)

This article takes seriously Collingwood's claim that history is a science and explores what he could have meant by this contention. The essence of his claim is the inferential nature of history, but its specific character was not fully explored. It is argued that the type of inference he hinted at was abduction as developed by Peirce. The importance of this type of reasoning is increasingly endorsed in contemporary debates, and Collingwood's ideas on the scientific status of history turn out (...) to be relevant. (shrink)

Kitchen, cooking, nutrition, and eating have become omnipresent cultural topics. They stand at the center of design, gastronomy, nutrition science, and agriculture. Artists have appropriated cooking as an aesthetic practice - in turn, cooks are adapting the staging practices that go with an artistic self-image. This development is accompanied by a philosophy of cooking as a speculative cultural technique. This volume investigates the dimensions of a new #on#culinary turn#off#, combining for the very first time contributions from the theory and practice (...) of cooking. The volume is bilingual, all contributions are presented in English and in German. (shrink)

This article draws on the results of an inductive qualitative study on the microdynamics of framing corporate community involvement. Insight is provided into these dynamics by using the metaphor of a social movement and drawing on that literature’s framing perspective. Based on accounts of diverse organizational members, we identify several double edges in framing CCI as a strategic issue, and we develop a model that helps to understand why and how strategizing CCI may be controversial.

This monograph deals with the aboutness of language.

My main objective in this paper is to show that Hermann Cohen's ethics offers an important but hitherto neglected contribution to the- current debate within Anglo-American ethics on the moral status of the modern business corporation.