Dear all,
This is a kind reminder for tomorrow's talk of the PACE/KiC
Metaphilosophical Talk Series by
Amie Thomasson, Dartmouth College
Title: Starting a step back: Functional Pluralism and the Work of
Metaphysics
Date: March 27th, 2025 (Thursday)
Time: 16:45-18:15
Location: Hörsaal 50, Hauptgebäude (2.Stock, Stiege 8) -
Universitätsring 1, 1010 Wien
Abstract:
Metaphysics traditionally answers questions such as “Are there
properties, universals, numbers, composite artifacts, fictional
characters…?’ ‘(If so), what are they like? How are they related to
minds, physical objects, etc.? Does ‘positing’ these things add
explanatory power to our theories?’… In this paper I will argue that we
should begin our questioning back a step, and begin by asking: “How does
talk of properties, numbers, ... enter language, and what functions does
it serve?” For doing so (I will argue) enables us to reevaluate many
classic metaphysical debates, to reassess prominent criteria used in
metaphysics, and to redirect metaphysics to more fruitful pursuits.
We look forward to seeing you!
Best wishes,
The PACE/KiC organising team
https://pace.phl.univie.ac.at/
https://www.knowledgeincrisis.com/