The Logical Analysis of Collective Predication

Abstract

In this paper I investigate the logical analysis of statements in which a predicate applies collectively to a plurality of subjects. The standard treatment of such cases in first-order logic is not completely satisfactory, and the search for alternative modes of representation opens up interesting perspectives. I concentrate on the introduction of multigrade predicates, pointing out a number of weaknesses in the current literature on the subject. I argue that the collective/distributive opposition must be located in the logical structure of the statement in question.