Is a Theory of Names Possible?

Abstract

AbstractA theory is needed in any systematic study to guide those working in the field. Theories are of two types: strong or scientific, which contain an experimental procedure for potentially disproving the theory, and weak or general, which are incapable of disproof but are still useful guidelines for study. Onomastics, like linguistics generally, is capable of only a weak theory. Seven desiderata for a theory of names are suggested.