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Single Idea 13389

[from 'Possibility' by Michael Jubien, in 10. Modality / E. Possible worlds / 1. Possible Worlds / e. Against possible worlds ]

Full Idea

I believe the contemporary infatuation with possible worlds in philosophy stems in part from a tendency to think that technical logic offers silver-bullet solutions to philosophical problems.

Gist of Idea

The love of possible worlds is part of the dream that technical logic solves philosophical problems

Source

Michael Jubien (Possibility [2009], 3.2)

Book Reference

Jubien,Michael: 'Possibility' [OUP 2009], p.67


A Reaction

I would say that the main reason for the infatuation is just novelty. As a technical device it was only invented in the 1960s, so we are in a honeymoon period, as we would be with any new gadget. I can't imagine possible worlds figuring much in 100 years.