Single Idea 9406

[catalogued under 4. Formal Logic / F. Set Theory ST / 7. Natural Sets]

Full Idea

To say that a class is natural is to say that when some of its members are shown to people they pick out others without hesitation and in agreement.

Gist of Idea

A class is natural when everybody can spot further members of it

Source

Anthony Quinton (The Nature of Things [1973], 9 'Nat')

Book Reference

Quinton,Anthony: 'The Nature of Things' [RKP 1973], p.264


A Reaction

He concedes a number of problems with his view, but I admire his attempt to at least begin to distinguish the natural (real!) classes from the ersatz ones. A mention of causal powers would greatly improve his story.