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  3. Modality
  • This book is no longer available to purchase from Cambridge Core
  • Cited by 25
Publisher:
Acumen Publishing
Online publication date:
February 2013
Print publication year:
2003
Online ISBN:
9781844653348
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1017/UPO9781844653348
Subjects:
Logic, Philosophy
Series:
Central Problems of Philosophy
Information

Book description

More and more philosophers are using modal notions to solve problems and to analyse concepts. In this introduction to the topic of modality Joseph Melia places his emphasis on a commitment to possible worlds as the best way to understand the nature of necessity. Melia demonstrates how different theories about possible worlds not only influence our more general modal beliefs but illustrate and illuminate various methodological considerations, such as the degree to which any philosophical theory ought to respect common sense. The book begins by introducing readers to various notions of possibility, the de re/de dicto distinction and the ubiquity of our modal concepts. It then presents an accessible introduction to modal logic and possible worlds semantics. Melia argues that by accepting possible worlds into our metaphysics, we can justify such formal semantics, refute Quine's modal scepticism, and make sense of our ordinary thought and talk about the modal. Various theories of possible worlds are critically examined, including David Lewis's extreme realism, Alvin Plantinga's moderate realism, David Armstrong's combinatorialism and the linguistic theory. The book is accessible and engaging throughout and will be welcomed by students looking for a non-technical introduction to a much discussed and contested area of philosophical inquiry.

Reviews

"A must-read for anyone interested in the metaphysics of modality. It explores fundamental topics with depth and subtlety, yet it is, for the most part, easy to read. The style of presentation is informal, at times irreverent, and always engaging."

Source: Philosophical Books

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