Single Idea 11897

[catalogued under 9. Objects / A. Existence of Objects / 5. Individuation / a. Individuation]

Full Idea

One view of a principle of individuation is what is called a 'criterion of identity', determining answers to questions about identity and distinctness at a time and over time - a principle of distinction and persistence.

Gist of Idea

A principle of individuation may pinpoint identity and distinctness, now and over time

Source

Penelope Mackie (How Things Might Have Been [2006], 8.2)

Book Reference

Mackie,Penelope: 'How Things Might Have Been' [OUP 2006], p.134


A Reaction

Since the term 'Prime Minister' might do this job, presumably there could be a de dicto as well as a de re version of individuation. The distinctness consists of chairing cabinet meetings, rather than being of a particular sex.