Single Idea 10316

[catalogued under 5. Theory of Logic / F. Referring in Logic / 1. Naming / d. Singular terms]

Full Idea

The criteria for a genuine singular term should pick out not the singular terms themselves but their uses, since they may be genuine in one context and not another.

Gist of Idea

We should decide whether singular terms are genuine by their usage

Source

Bob Hale (Abstract Objects [1987], Ch.2.II)

Book Reference

Hale,Bob: 'Abstract Objects' [Blackwell 1987], p.28


A Reaction

[rephrased] This will certainly meet problems with vagueness (e.g. as the reference of a singular term is gradually clarified).

Related Idea

Idea 16375 Singular thoughts need a mental file, and an acquaintance relation from file to object [Recanati]