Single Idea 12297

[catalogued under 9. Objects / E. Objects over Time / 5. Temporal Parts]

Full Idea

Even if one is a three-dimensionalist, one might affirm the existence of temporal parts, on the grounds that everything merely endures for an instant.

Clarification

See Idea 12295 for 'three-dimensionalist'

Gist of Idea

Three-dimensionalist can accept temporal parts, as things enduring only for an instant

Source

Kit Fine (In Defence of Three-Dimensionalism [2006], p.2)

Book Reference

'Being: Developments in Contemporary Metaphysics', ed/tr. Le Poidevin,R [CUP 2008], p.2


A Reaction

This seems an important point, as belief in temporal parts is normally equated with four-dimensionalism (see Idea 12296). The idea is that a thing might be 'entirely present' at each instant, only to be replaced by a simulacrum.

Related Ideas

Idea 12296 4-D says things are stretched in space and in time, and not entire at a time or at a location [Fine,K]

Idea 12295 3-D says things are stretched in space but not in time, and entire at a time but not at a location [Fine,K]