by Edward F. Becker (Get the Book)Becker (Univ. of Nebraska, Lincoln) provides an exposition of the central themes of W. V. Quine's philosophy beginning with the rejection of conventionalism, the linguistic doctrine of logical truth, and the analytic-synthetic distinction. He then moves on to the views that Quine defended: the indeterminacy of translation, the inscrutability of reference, and ontological relativity. Where he finds difficulties, he explains either how Quine modified his theories as he changed his views, or he provides suggestions as to how Quine could defend his position. Becker's exposition and critical evaluation are clear, thorough, and insightful. The closest comparison to this work is Roger Gibson's The Philosophy of W. V. Quine: An Expository Essay. --Choice
