An Ontological Interpretation of Laws of Form — Randolph Dible

The publication of Laws of Form 50 years ago, in 1969, marks a turning point in the history of ideas. Interpretations and applications of its central concepts range from those published in the book itself, the author’s explanations in the notes and appendices over many editions and in other books, and the interpretations, applications, and adaptations of numerous other philosophical scientists. In this presentation, I would like to focus on Spencer-Brown’s own philosophical interpretations of his work, and draw out the intended ontology by reflecting on its traditional antecedents. I will illustrate this reflection by tying the first principles of Laws of Form to the central concepts and metaphysical structures of ancient Greek philosophy and mathematics. Behind all these illustrations, I will show the presence of a common fundamental ontology relevant to at least as many domains as the formalistic interpretation has found itself associated with. My hope is to show that the objects and powers of Laws