Single Idea 8495

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / D. Universals / 1. Universals]

Full Idea

The whole theory of particulars and universals is due to mistaking for a fundamental characteristic of reality what is merely a characteristic of language.

Gist of Idea

The distinction between particulars and universals is a mistake made because of language

Source

Frank P. Ramsey (Universals [1925], p.13)

Book Reference

Ramsey,Frank: 'Philosophical Papers', ed/tr. Mellor,D.H. [CUP 1990], p.13


A Reaction

[Fraser MacBride has pursued this idea] It is rather difficult to deny the existence of particulars, in the sense of actual objects, so this appears to make Ramsey a straightforward nominalist, of some sort or other.