more from Cynthia Macdonald

Single Idea 7938

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / A. Relations / 2. Internal Relations]

Full Idea

In statements attributing relational properties ('Felix is my favourite cat'), it seems clear that the property truly attributed to the substance is not essential to it.

Gist of Idea

Relational properties are clearly not essential to substances

Source

Cynthia Macdonald (Varieties of Things [2005], Ch.3)

Book Reference

Macdonald,Cynthia: 'Varieties of Things' [Blackwell 2005], p.101


A Reaction

A fairly obvious point, but an important one when mapping out (cautiously) what we actually mean by 'property'. However, maybe the relational property is essential: the ceiling is ('is' of predication!) above the room.