Single Idea 8500

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / E. Nominalism / 2. Resemblance Nominalism]

Full Idea

Some red things resemble some blue things more than some pink things because of factors other than colour. Nominalists must offer 'anything red colour-resembles anything pink', but that may contain a universal in disguise.

Gist of Idea

Colour resemblance isn't just resemblance between things; 'colour' must be mentioned

Source

Frank Jackson (Statements about Universals [1977], p.90)

Book Reference

'Properties', ed/tr. Mellor,D.H. /Oliver,A [OUP 1997], p.90


A Reaction

Hume and Quine are probably right that we spot resemblances instantly, and only articulate the respect of the resemblance at a later stage.