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Single Idea 5409

[from 'Problems of Philosophy' by Bertrand Russell, in 8. Modes of Existence / D. Universals / 4. Uninstantiated Universals ]

Full Idea

We think of things existing when they are in time (though possibly at all times), but universals do not exist in this sense, so we shall say that they 'subsist' or 'have being'.

Gist of Idea

Normal existence is in time, so we must say that universals 'subsist'

Source

Bertrand Russell (Problems of Philosophy [1912], Ch. 9)

Book Reference

Russell,Bertrand: 'The Problems of Philosophy' [OUP 1995], p.57


A Reaction

Russell picked up the word 'subsist' from medieval philosophy. This idea brings the full Platonic metaphysics with it, which is tricky, to say the least. But what can you do? Admitting the content of thought brings baggage with it.