Single Idea 12816

[catalogued under 4. Formal Logic / G. Formal Mereology / 3. Axioms of Mereology]

Full Idea

The underlying logic of classical extensional mereology does not have the resources to deal with temporal and modal notions such as temporary part, temporal part, essential part, or essential permanent part.

Gist of Idea

Classical mereology doesn't handle temporal or modal notions very well

Source

Peter Simons (Parts [1987], Intro)

Book Reference

Simons,Peter: 'Parts: a Study in Ontology' [OUP 1987], p.1


A Reaction

Simons tries to rectify this in the later chapters of his book, with modifications rather than extensions. Since everyone struggles with temporal and modal issues of identity, we shouldn't judge too harshly.