A Theory of Abstraction (Objectivist Studies Book 5)

By David Kelley

This monograph is an academic explanation and analysis of Ayn Rand’s measurement-omission theory of concept formation, It also relates Objectivism to other philosophical approaches to concept-formation. This classic essay was originally published in Cognition and Brain Theory, 1984, 7 (3 & 4), 329–357. 

About David Kelley: 

David Kelley is a professional philosopher, teacher, and author. After earning a Ph.D. in philosophy from Princeton University in 1975, he taught philosophy at Vassar College (1975-84) and at Brandeis University as a Visiting Lecturer (1989-90), specializing in epistemology and cognitive science. In 1990 Kelley founded The Atlas Society to promote open Objectivism—Ayn Rand’s philosophy of reason, achievement, rational self-interest, and freedom.

Among his books are The Evidence of the Senses, a treatise on the perceptual base of knowledge; The Art of Reasoning, a college textbook in logic, now in its 4th edition; Unrugged Individualism: The Selfish Basis of Benevolence; and A Life of One's Own: Individual Rights and the Welfare State, a critique of the moral premises of the welfare state; and Truth and Toleration in Objectivism.

Kelley has also written extensively for major publications on issues in philosophy, culture, and politics; and given many talks to academic and policy organizations.