Single Idea 6764

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / B. Natural Kinds / 5. Reference to Natural Kinds]

Full Idea

The nominal essence of a natural kind K consists of those features a thing must have to deserve the name 'a K' by virtue of the meaning of that name.

Gist of Idea

Nominal essence of a natural kind is the features that make it fit its name

Source

Alexander Bird (Philosophy of Science [1998], Ch.3)

Book Reference

Bird,Alexander: 'Philosophy of Science' [UCL Press 2000], p.99


A Reaction

Some people think 'nominal essence' is the only essence there is, which would make it relative to human languages. The rival view is that there are 'real essences'. I favour the latter view.