Categorical Proof-theoretic Semantics

David Pym*, Eike Ritter*, Edmund P. Robinson*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

In proof-theoretic semantics, model-theoretic validity is replaced by proof- theoretic validity. Validity of formulae is defined inductively from a base giving the validity of atoms using inductive clauses derived from proof-theoretic rules. A key aim is to show completeness of the proof rules without any requirement for formal models. Establishing this for propositional intuitionistic logic (IPL) raises some technical and conceptual issues. We relate Sandqvist’s (complete) base- extension semantics of intuitionistic propositional logic to categorical proof theory in presheaves, reconstructing categorically the soundness and completeness argu- ments, thereby demonstrating the naturality of Sandqvist’s constructions. This naturality includes Sandqvist’s treatment of disjunction that is based on its second-order or elimination-rule presentation. These constructions embody not just validity, but certain forms of objects of justifications. This analysis is taken a step further by showing that from the perspective of validity, Sandqvist’s semantics can also be viewed as the natural disjunction in a category of sheaves.
Original languageEnglish
JournalStudia Logica
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 31 Jan 2024

Bibliographical note

Not yet published as of 22/04/2024.

Keywords

  • proof theory
  • categorical logic

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Computational Theory and Mathematics

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