On Arbitrary Reference

In this chapter we introduce (PAR), the Principle of Arbitrary Reference. According to PAR any object of the universe of discourse is capable of been picked out by an act of arbitrary reference. We argue that PAR is essential for both formal and informal logical deduction, as well as for the semantics of quantifiers. We propose to understand arbitrary reference as direct reference via an ideal act of choice, setting the stage for further developments in later chapters.