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Single Idea 4030

[from 'Problems of Philosophy' by Bertrand Russell, in 8. Modes of Existence / D. Universals / 2. Need for Universals ]

Full Idea

Russell's positive argument for universals is that they explain how we can have a priori knowledge, which 'deals exclusively with the relations of universals'.

Clarification

I.e. abstract ideas must exist to permit knowledge by pure thought

Gist of Idea

Russell claims that universals are needed to explain a priori knowledge (as their relations)

Source

report of Bertrand Russell (Problems of Philosophy [1912], Ch. 9) by DH Mellor / A Oliver - Introduction to 'Properties' §3

Book Reference

'Properties', ed/tr. Mellor,D.H. /Oliver,A [OUP 1997], p.6


A Reaction

Unfortunately we can invent the universals, and then delude ourselves that we have a priori knowledge