Goodman, Nelson (1906–98)

(This work uses devices of formal logic to construct systems that solve or dissolve perennial problems in epistemology. It argues that the availability of multiple, divergent constructional systems is a virtue rather than a flaw.)

(This work poses the new riddle of induction, and proposes a solution to it. It argues that only by looking at past inductive practice do we have the resources for precluding the induction of ‘All emeralds are grue’.)

(A development of a general theory of symbols and an application to the arts.)

(A collection of papers on a variety of issues including art, meaning, induction and simplicity.)

(This work argues that worlds are made through the construction and deployment of symbol systems, and that there are many worlds if any.)

(A collection of papers on metaphysics, aesthetics and the theory of reference.)

(This book reconceives the ends and means of philosophy, taking understanding and rightness of symbols rather than knowledge and truth as central notions.)

(Goodman’s PhD dissertation. A precursor to the position developed more fully in The Structure of Appearance.)

(An excellent introduction; covers the full range of Goodman’s work, showing how his epistemology, philosophy of science, metaphysics and aesthetics weave together into a mutually supportive philosophy.)

(An explication and elaboration of Goodman’s theory of symbols, which also extends it to the philosophy of language.)

(A collection of papers by European philosophers that synthesize, analyse, extend and correct aspects of Goodman’s philosophy.)

(An excellent, accessible introduction to the main themes in Goodman’s technical work.)

(A discussion of the metaphysical position Goodman adopts in Ways of Worldmaking.)

(An anthology of papers on the new riddle of induction. Contains an excellent annotated bibliography.)