CHARLES SANDERS PEIRCE

Abstract

This paper is a discussion of certain ideas of Charles Sanders Peirce. Peirce was a scientist, expert in the construction of scientific instruments, logician, mathematician, philosopher, and originator of semiotics (the study of signs). More revered internationally than locally in his day, Peirce has been the subject of growing interest in recent decades. I will concentrate on his philosophical ideas, although I will here and there be bumping up against his other specialties. There are any number of possible entry points to Peirce’s philosophy which might be chosen, but, illustrative of his principle of synechism or continuity, no matter where we start we will eventually connect with his whole vision.