Single Idea 19027

[catalogued under 10. Modality / B. Possibility / 4. Potentiality]

Full Idea

The logic for potentiality corresponds to modal system T, the minimum for metaphysics. The S4 axiom ◊◊φ → ◊φ says iterated potentialities collapse, and the S5 ◊φ → □◊φ says potentialities can't be lost.

Gist of Idea

Potentiality logic is modal system T. Stronger systems collapse iterations, and necessitate potentials

Source

Barbara Vetter (Potentiality [2015], 5.9)

Book Reference

Vetter,Barbara: 'Potentiality: from Dispositions to Modality' [OUP 2015], p.196


A Reaction

[compressed] This seems persuasive. I nice example of modern analytic metaphysics, that you have to find a logic that suits your theory. N.Salmon defends system T for all of metaphysics, though most people favour S5.