Single Idea 22134

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / D. Universals / 2. Need for Universals]

Full Idea

Our thoughts are full of generalities, but the world contains no generalities. So how can our thoughts accurately represent the world? This is the problem of universals.

Gist of Idea

Thoughts are general, but the world isn't, so how can we think accurately?

Source

Stephen Boulter (Why Medieval Philosophy Matters [2019], 1)

Book Reference

Boulter,Stephen: 'Why Medieval Philosophy Matters' [Bloomsbury 2019], p.33


A Reaction

I so love it when someone comes up with a really clear explanation of a problem, and this is a beauty from Stephen Boulter. Only a really clear explanation can motivate philosophical issues for non-philosophers.