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Single Idea 11165

[from 'Essence and Modality' by Kit Fine, in 9. Objects / E. Objects over Time / 12. Origin as Essential ]

Full Idea

If there is nothing in the nature of Socrates which demands that he exists, then presumably there is nothing in the nature of Socrates which demands that his parents exist.

Gist of Idea

If Socrates lacks necessary existence, then his nature cannot require his parents' existence

Source

Kit Fine (Essence and Modality [1994], p. 6)

Book Reference

-: 'Philosophical Perspectives' [-], p.6


A Reaction

This sounds conclusive to me, against any claim that Socrates necessarily had those parents, if the claim is based on the identity or esssence of Socrates.