Independent set readings and generalized quantifiers (Q848211)

The aim of this paper is to provide a uniform, modular, and improved logical framework for a class of multiple nested generalized quantifiers (GQs), namely the independent set (IS) readings that hold for noun phrases (NPs) associated with distributive predications (IS-dis). While IS-interpretations of NPs for distributive predications (IS-dis) are the simplest ones to be represented, IS-collective and IS-cumulative readings require more complex devices for dealing with plural individuals, eventually variables etc. The present development continues the logical semantics for nested GQs that occur within referential interpretations of NPs, which extends a previous approach of \textit{G. Y. Sher} [J. Philos. Log. 26, No.~1, 1--43 (1997; Zbl 0864.03020)] with 2-place Mostowski predicate formulae for any sets of (non-nested) quantifiers and any partial order on them. The basic idea of the current paper is to devise a separate treatment of the GQ `restriction' and the GQ `body'. More precisely, every NL quantifier Q is associated with two referential terms which are \(n\)-ary predicates, the first one denoting the set of individuals for the Q restriction, and the second one establishing the set of individuals that satisfy the Q body. The two sets of individuals are determined by 2-place Mostowski predicates associated to the quantifier Q. The proposed formulae assert maximality conditions on the restriction-body predicates, depending on the GQ partial ordering in the NL text. Several inclusion conditions are also necessary. Thus the logic formulae in the considered framework are conjunctions of three kinds of conditions, i.e., cardinality, inclusion and maximality, which makes it no longer possible to recursively define the classical model theory and its nested GQ interpretations. The twofold referential interpretation of the NPs constitutes the author's proposed alternative to the problem of the quantifier nesting, where the IS readings are seen as natural as the standard linear ones. The relationship of the present approach to the well-known Mark Steedman CCG (combinatory categorial grammar) logical and grammatical framework is outlined. The solution proposed in this paper allows the authors to uniformly deal with both standard linear and IS readings, regardless of the nested shape and monotoniciy of the GQ's actual existence in the NL text, allowing to avoid the parallel nested quantification in the logical formulae and to achieve the proper truth values.