Full Idea
The mental file framework rests on two principles: that the subject cannot entertain a singular thought about an object without possessing and exercising a mental file about it, and that this requires an acquaintance relation with the object.
Gist of Idea
Singular thoughts need a mental file, and an acquaintance relation from file to object
Source
François Recanati (Mental Files [2012], 12.3)
Book Reference
Recanati,François: 'Mental Files' [OUP 2012], p.155
A Reaction
I'm puzzled by the case where I design and build a completely new object. I seem to assemble a file, and only bestow singularity on it towards the end. Or the singularity can just be a placeholder, referred to as 'something'. […see p.158]
Related Idea
Idea 16377 Expected acquaintance can create a thought-vehicle file, but without singular content [Recanati]