Single Idea 3751

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / D. Universals / 2. Need for Universals]

Full Idea

Abstract entities (universals) are admitted to an ontology by Quine's criterion if they must be supposed to exist (or subsist) in order to make the propositions of an accepted theory true.

Gist of Idea

Universals are acceptable if they are needed to make an accepted theory true

Source

report of Willard Quine (works [1961]) by Dale Jacquette - Abstract Entity p.3

Book Reference

'Cambridge Dictionary of Philosophy', ed/tr. Audi,Robert [CUP 1995], p.3