本計畫探究概念的本質與建構為何，而得以支撐語意的脈絡主義主張的多樣調節活動。首先檢視用來服務極小主義的概念理論──Fodorian的概念原子論，指出其所堅持的系統性亦可由其他載體所實現。其次探究可用以支持脈絡主義的概念理論──Jesse Prinz的代理型論(proxytype theory)，指出其在說明組構性、回應浮現性質及個體化問題上的不足，進而建立一個以語質(semantic sentiment)為基礎的概念模型，來說明概念在語意調節中的角色：模型中具有各種儲存的性質(feature)，整合性質的結構(sructure)，及啟動模型的語質(semantic sentiment)，這種完形(gestalt)的建構得以回應代理型論不足之處。
The project investigates the nature and construction of the concept and aims build a sentiment-based model of concept to support semantic contextualism. First, Fodorian concept atomism will be critically examined. I shall point that there is alternative vehicle to implement the systematicity that Fodorian atomism requires a concept theory to satisfy. Second, Prinz’s proxytype theory will be studied and I shall point out there is much to be required on his reply to the compositionality, emergent features, and individuation problem. The aim of the project is to build a gestalt model with features, structure, and semantic sentiment to redeem proxytype theory and explain the role of concept in semantic modulation.
