Fodor’s Asymmetric Dependency Theory

Abstract

Fodor’s theory of intentionality can be interpreted as consisting of two parts: (1) theory about propositional attitudes and (2) theory of content or meaning. In this paper we will focus mainly on his theory of content, particularly his theory of asymmetric dependence on the problem of disjunction, since it is at the heart of Fodor’s theory of representation. Fodor’s theory of content is a well-known attempt to naturalize mental representation and one of the most important parts of his theory is the notion of asymmetric dependence. He offers it as a solution to the problem of disjunction. In this context, we will examine his theory of content, and particularly his notion of asymmetric dependence. After summarizing his theory, we will discuss that asymmetric dependence may have some weaknesses that require some revision. Fodor modified his theory considering objections to his earlier work. However, there may still be some problems that he needs to solve. Accordingly, we will identify three important challenges to the theory of asymmetric dependence, namely the problem of unjustified properties, the problem of pathologies, and the problem of wild causation. Finally, we will give some answers to these challenges on behalf of Fodor and discuss that Fodor’s theory may overcome all these problems.