Single Idea 16396

[catalogued under 10. Modality / E. Possible worlds / 2. Nature of Possible Worlds / a. Nature of possible worlds]

Full Idea

The possible worlds framework that Kripke introduces should be understood not as a metaphysical theory, but as a methodological framework.

Gist of Idea

Kripke's possible worlds are methodological, not metaphysical

Source

Robert C. Stalnaker (Reference and Necessity [1997], Intro)

Book Reference

Stalnaker,Robert C.: 'Ways a World Might Be' [OUP 2003], p.166


A Reaction

That's certainly how I see possible worlds. I lose no sleep over whether they exist. I just take a set of possible worlds to be like cells in a spreadsheet, or records in a database.