Combining Philosophers

Ideas for Paul Ricoeur, Chris Swoyer and Michael Smith

unexpand these ideas     |    start again     |     choose another area for these philosophers

display all the ideas for this combination of philosophers

---

2 ideas

9. Objects / A. Existence of Objects / 2. Abstract Objects / a. Nature of abstracta

10403	If properties are abstract objects, then their being abstract exemplifies being abstract [Swoyer]
	Full Idea: If properties are abstract objects, then the property of being abstract should itself exemplify the property of being abstract.
	From: Chris Swoyer (Properties [2000], 2.2)
	A reaction: Swoyer links this observation with Plato's views on self-predication, and his Third Man Argument (which I bet originated with Aristotle in the Academy!). Do we have a regress of objects, as well as a regress of properties?

9. Objects / A. Existence of Objects / 5. Simples

14593	Quantum field theory suggests that there are, fundamentally, no individual things [Swoyer]
	Full Idea: Quantum field theory strongly suggests that there are (at the fundamental level) no individual, particular things.
	From: Chris Swoyer (Abstract Entities [2008], 2.1)
	A reaction: When people introduce quantum theory into ontological discussions I reach for my shotgun, but it does rather look as if things turn to mush at the bottom level.