Single Idea 12447

[catalogued under 7. Existence / A. Nature of Existence / 6. Criterion for Existence]

Full Idea

If the argument isn't that, metaphysically speaking, anything that exists must have causal powers - how on earth would we show that? - rather, the claim is an epistemic one. Any thing we're in a position to know about we must causally interact with.

Gist of Idea

That all existents have causal powers is unknowable; the claim is simply an epistemic one

Source

Jody Azzouni (Deflating Existential Consequence [2004], Ch.4)

Book Reference

Azzouni,Jody: 'Deflating Existential Consequence' [OUP 2004], p.83


A Reaction

A very good point. I am attracted to causal power as a criterion for existence, but Azzouni's distinction is vital. Maybe there is just no point in even talking about things which exist but have no causal powers.