The Sorta Operator

Dennett uses sorta to discuss partial, precursor, or approximate versions of capacities without prematurely demanding a fully developed all-or-nothing category.

Sorta marks a partial or precursor version of a capacity whose full form might otherwise be treated as all-or-nothing. It can make gradual transitions and limited competence easier to discuss. The useful next step is to say which aspects are present and which are absent.

Leaving the qualification vague defeats its purpose. Replace a global verdict with a profile of relevant capabilities, then establish any operational threshold the decision requires. Some properties are genuinely discrete, and distinctions about law, ethics, or personhood are not resolved by adding a casual degree word.

When to use it

Use when binary labels obscure gradual development, mixed functions, or limited competence.

How it can help

Specify which relevant aspects a system exhibits, which it lacks, and where evidence is uncertain. Establish explicit thresholds when action requires them.