Type-Theoretic Signatures for Algebraic Theories and Inductive Types

Abstract

We develop the usage of certain type theories as specification languages for algebraic theories and inductive types. We observe that the expressive power of dependent type theories proves useful in the specification of more complicated algebraic theories. We describe syntax and semantics for three classes of algebraic theories: finitary quotient inductive-inductive theories, their infinitary generalization, and finally higher inductive-inductive theories. In each case, an algebraic signature is a typing context or a closed type in a specific type theory.