Full Idea
Pure causal theories of reference face the 'qua problem' - that it may be radically indeterminate what the term refers to unless there is some very basic concept of what sort of thing is being referred to.
Gist of Idea
Pure causal theories of reference have the 'qua problem', of what sort of things is being referred to
Source
Amie L. Thomasson (Ordinary Objects [2007], 02.3)
Book Reference
Thomasson,Amie L.: 'Ordinary Objects' [OUP 2010], p.38
A Reaction
She cites Dummett and Wiggins on this. There is an obvious problem that when I say 'look at that!' there are all sorts of conventions at work if my reference is to succeed.