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Single Idea 10321

[from 'Abstract Objects' by Bob Hale, in 9. Objects / F. Identity among Objects / 3. Relative Identity ]

Full Idea

Not every (apparent) judgement of identity involves application of anything properly describable as a criterion of identity, ...such as being able to pronounce that mercy is the quality of being merciful.

Gist of Idea

We sometimes apply identity without having a real criterion

Source

Bob Hale (Abstract Objects [1987], Ch.2.II)

Book Reference

Hale,Bob: 'Abstract Objects' [Blackwell 1987], p.39


A Reaction

This suggests some distinction between internal criteria (e.g. grammatical, conceptual) and external criteria (existent, sensed).