more from Bertrand Russell

Single Idea 7781

[catalogued under 9. Objects / A. Existence of Objects / 3. Objects in Thought]

Full Idea

Whatever may be an object of thought, or occur in a true or false proposition, or be counted as one, I call a term. This is the widest word in the philosophical vocabulary, which I use synonymously with unit, individual, entity (being one, and existing).

Gist of Idea

I call an object of thought a 'term'. This is a wide concept implying unity and existence.

Source

Bertrand Russell (The Principles of Mathematics [1903], §047)

Book Reference

Russell,Bertrand: 'Principles of Mathematics' [Routledge 1992], p.43


A Reaction

The claim of existence begs many questions, such as whether the non-existence of the Loch Ness Monster is an 'object' of thought.