The Thursday Thought Experiment.

Episode 4: Names and Frege


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What’s in a name? More than you think.

In this week’s episode, we dive into a puzzle that looks simple on the surface but turns out to reshape how we understand language itself. Names don’t just point to things — they carry layers of meaning, shaping how we see the world. Gottlob Frege’s classic insight into sense and reference explains why “J. K. Rowling is Robert Galbraith” was a revelation, while “Rowling is Rowling” is… well, boring.

From monarchs and presidents to pen names and pseudonyms, we’ll explore why names matter, how they surprise us, and what this means for the way we think and communicate.

If you’ve ever wondered how language can transform facts into discoveries, this is the episode for you.

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The Thursday Thought Experiment.By Trust Me I'm A Philosopher