Single Idea 4207

[catalogued under 10. Modality / E. Possible worlds / 1. Possible Worlds / a. Possible worlds]

Full Idea

It may be possible to eliminate the modal operators (in English, 'is possible' and 'is necessary') in favour of quantifier expressions with variables ranging over possible worlds.

Clarification

'Quantification' just asserts existence

Gist of Idea

We might eliminate 'possible' and 'necessary' in favour of quantification over possible worlds

Source

E.J. Lowe (A Survey of Metaphysics [2002], p.121)

Book Reference

Lowe,E.J.: 'A Survey of Metaphysics' [OUP 2002], p.121


A Reaction

Hence 'necessary' becomes 'exists/is true in all possible worlds'. Deep problems, but at least we must show that referring to 'possible' worlds isn't a circular explanation of 'is possible'.