Functional Calculus (Noun)
Meaning
A system of symbolic logic that represents individuals and predicates and quantification over individuals (as well as the relations between propositions).
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- The functional calculus is a system of symbolic logic that provides a powerful tool for representing and reasoning about complex relationships between individuals and predicates.
- In the context of formal semantics, the functional calculus is used to analyze the meaning of natural language expressions and to formalize their logical structure.
- The functional calculus is closely related to predicate logic, and is often used interchangeably with this term, although some authors make a distinction between the two.
- The development of the functional calculus is attributed to the work of Gottlob Frege, who introduced the concept of quantification over individuals in his Begriffsschrift.
- The functional calculus has been widely used in various fields, including artificial intelligence, computer science, and philosophy, to represent and reason about complex systems and relationships.