Single Idea 13402

[catalogued under 5. Theory of Logic / F. Referring in Logic / 1. Naming / a. Names]

Full Idea

We cannot be said to have a full grasp of a name unless we have a definite disposition to apply it or to withhold it under whatever conceivable changes the bearer of the name might come to undergo.

Gist of Idea

We only grasp a name if we know whether to apply it when the bearer changes

Source

Michael Jubien (Possibility [2009], 5.3)

Book Reference

Jubien,Michael: 'Possibility' [OUP 2009], p.134


A Reaction

This is right, and an excellent counterproposal to the logicians' notion that names have to rigidly designate. As a bare minimum, you are not supposed to deny the identity of your parents because they have grown a bit older, or a damaged painting.