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This monograph details a new solution to an old problem of metaphysics. It presents an improved version of Ostrich Nominalism to solve the Problem of Universals. This innovative approach allows one to resolve the different formulations of the Problem, which represents an important meta-metaphysical achievement.In order to accomplish this ambitious task, the author appeals to the notion and logic of ontological grounding. Instead of defending Quine's original principle of ontological commitment, he proposes the principle of grounded ontological commitment. This represents an entirely new application of grounding.
Some metaphysicians regard Ostrich Nominalism as a rejection of the problem rather than a proper solution to it. To counter this, the author presents solutions for each of the formulations. These include: the problem of predication, the problem of abstract reference, and the One Over Many as well as the Many Over One and the Similar but Different variants.
This book will appeal to anyone interested in contemporary metaphysics. It will also serve as an ideal resource to scholars working on the history of philosophy. Many will recognize in the solution insights resembling those of traditional philosophers, especially of the Middle Ages.
List of contents
Introduction.- Chapter 1. Many Formulations of One Problem.- Chapter 2. What is it like to be an Ostrich?.- Chapter 3. Varieties of Explanation.- Chapter 4. Predication and Regress: In virtue of what is a F?.- Chapter 5. The One Over Many and its Variations.- Chapter 6. Abstract Reference.- Chapter 7. The Big Picture of Reality and the Advantages of Priority Nominalism.- References.- Index.
About the author
Guido Imaguire received his Ph.D. at the University of Munich, and spent a year at the University of Oxford (2014-15). Since 2009 he teaches metaphysics, logic and philosophy of language at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. Books: Russells Frühphilosophy, On Denoting 1995-2005 (with B. Linsky), Possible Worlds (with D. Jacquette), among others, and many articles on metaphysics, philosophy of mathematics, logic and philosophy of language.
Summary
This monograph details a new solution to an old problem of metaphysics. It presents an improved version of Ostrich Nominalism to solve the Problem of Universals. This innovative approach allows one to resolve the different formulations of the Problem, which represents an important meta-metaphysical achievement.In order to accomplish this ambitious task, the author appeals to the notion and logic of ontological grounding. Instead of defending Quine’s original principle of ontological commitment, he proposes the principle of grounded ontological commitment. This represents an entirely new application of grounding.
Some metaphysicians regard Ostrich Nominalism as a rejection of the problem rather than a proper solution to it. To counter this, the author presents solutions for each of the formulations. These include: the problem of predication, the problem of abstract reference, and the One Over Many as well as the Many Over One and the Similar but Different variants.
This book will appeal to anyone interested in contemporary metaphysics. It will also serve as an ideal resource to scholars working on the history of philosophy. Many will recognize in the solution insights resembling those of traditional philosophers, especially of the Middle Ages.
