Single Idea 16544

[catalogued under 10. Modality / C. Sources of Modality / 6. Necessity from Essence]

Full Idea

A metaphysically necessary truth is a truth which is either an essential truth or a truth that obtains in virtue of the essences of two or more distinct things. Hence all metaphysical necessity is grounded in essence.

Gist of Idea

Metaphysical necessity is either an essential truth, or rests on essential truths

Source

E.J. Lowe (What is the Source of Knowledge of Modal Truths? [2013], 6)

Book Reference

-: 'Mind' [-], p.21


A Reaction

Lowe is endeavouring to give an exposition of the approach advocated by Kit Fine. I divide necessities 'because of' things (such as essences) from necessities 'for' things, such as situations or events.

Related Idea

Idea 16543 If an essence implies p, then p is an essential truth, and hence metaphysically necessary [Lowe]