Single Idea 10555

[catalogued under 9. Objects / A. Existence of Objects / 2. Abstract Objects / b. Need for abstracta]

Full Idea

For intuitionists, it ceases to be true that abstract objects are not observable and cannot be involved in causal interaction, since such intuitive apprehension of them may be regarded as just such an interaction.

Gist of Idea

If we can intuitively apprehend abstract objects, this makes them observable and causally active

Source

Michael Dummett (Frege Philosophy of Language (2nd ed) [1973], Ch.14)

Book Reference

Dummett,Michael: 'Frege Philosophy of Language' [Duckworth 1981], p.511


A Reaction

I would say that since abstract objects can be involved in causal interactions, in the mind, and since the mind is entirely physical (oh yes), this makes abstract objects entirely physical, which may come as a shock to some people.