1932 – 2002
Jerrold J. Katz was an American philosopher and linguist best known for his work in the philosophy of language, semantics, and the philosophy of mathematics. He defended a robust form of Platonic realism about abstract objects, particularly linguistic and mathematical entities, and contributed foundational work to generative semantics.
Developed Platonist theory of linguistics in 'Language and Other Abstract Objects'
Co-authored the Katz-Postal hypothesis in generative semantics
Advanced an argument by elimination for mathematical platonism
Contributed the Katz-Fodor semantic theory
Authored 'Realistic Rationalism' defending abstract objects