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Full Idea
Pure causal theories of reference have problems in handling nonexistence claims
Gist of Idea
How can causal theories of reference handle nonexistence claims?
Source
Amie L. Thomasson (Ordinary Objects [2007], 02.3)
Book Ref
Thomasson,Amie L.: 'Ordinary Objects' [OUP 2010], p.38
A Reaction
This is a very sound reason for shifting from a direct causal baptism view to one in which the baptism takes place by a social consensus. So there is a consensus about 'unicorns', but obviously no baptism. See Evans's 'Madagascar' example.