Single Idea 4943

[catalogued under 10. Modality / E. Possible worlds / 1. Possible Worlds / a. Possible worlds]

Full Idea

We should remind ourselves the 'possible worlds' terminology can always be replaced by modal talk, such as "It is possible that…"

Gist of Idea

Instead of talking about possible worlds, we can always say "It is possible that.."

Source

Saul A. Kripke (Naming and Necessity preface [1980], p.15)

Book Reference

Kripke,Saul: 'Naming and Necessity' [Blackwell 1980], p.15


A Reaction

Coming from an originator of the possible worlds idea, this is a useful reminder that we don't have to get too excited about the ontological commitments involved. It may be just a 'way to talk', and hence a tool, rather than a truth about reality.