Cookies

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. By continuing to browse this repository, you give consent for essential cookies to be used. You can read more about our Privacy and Cookie Policy.


Durham e-Theses
You are in:

Extended Modal Realism — A New Solution to Problems Related to Non-existence

THOMAS, ANDREW (2021) Extended Modal Realism — A New Solution to Problems Related to Non-existence. Doctoral thesis, Durham University.

[img]
Preview
PDF - Accepted Version
1006Kb

Abstract

This thesis argues that we should consider extended modal realism as a new player in the debate about non-existence. The primary aim is to show that extended modal realism is a viable theory when it comes to solving problems of non-existence. At times I will argue that extended modal realism has advantages over Lewisian modal realism when it comes to examining the problems of non-existence, not only in the case of problems relating to thought but also problems concerning truth as well. However, I do not intend for the proposed advantages of extended modal realism to be presented as knockdown arguments against other strategies.

Not only do I argue that extended modal realism is viable when it comes to solving these problems, but I also make adjustments and additions to the theory that supports the conclusion of this thesis, and I argue that these are improvements to the modal realist theory. I include arguments for a new theory of existence that removes the need for the extended modal realist to rely on set-theoretic notations to understand existence, which I consider problematic. I argue for the revival of the Lewis-Rosen proposal for truth-making and a semantic instrumentalist theory of thought, both of which naturally accompany extended modal realism. Throughout this thesis, I will comment on the proposals and strategies of other authors, and some of these comments will be critical. At this very early stage, I want to clarify that this thesis's success does not rest on showing that all other competitor theories fail. I only include critical comments to situate extended modal realism within the landscape of viable positions that are available for one to occupy.

Item Type:Thesis (Doctoral)
Award:Doctor of Philosophy
Keywords:Non-existence, existence, Modal Realism, Intentionality
Faculty and Department:Faculty of Arts and Humanities > Philosophy, Department of
Thesis Date:2021
Copyright:Copyright of this thesis is held by the author
Deposited On:06 Sep 2021 15:33

Social bookmarking: del.icio.usConnoteaBibSonomyCiteULikeFacebookTwitter