Complex predication and the metaphysics of properties

Pickel, B. (2014) Complex predication and the metaphysics of properties. Dialectica, 68(2), pp. 209-230. (doi: 10.1111/1746-8361.12060)

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Abstract

The existence of complex predicates seems to support an abundant conception of properties. Specifically, the application conditions for complex predicates seem to be explained by the distribution of a sparser base of predicates. This explanatory link might suggest that the existence and distribution of properties expressed by complex predicates are explained by the existence and distribution of a sparser base of properties. Thus, complex predicates seem to legitimize the assumption of a wide array of properties. The additional properties are no explanatory addition to the sparse base. I argue, however, that construing complex predicates as expressing properties undermines the explanatory links between simple and complex predications. The argument explores a variety of accounts of complex predicates currently on offer and develops a number of themes from the work of Herbert Hochberg.

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:Special Issue: The Philosophy of Herbert Hochberg. Guest Editor: Fraser MacBride.
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Pickel, Dr Bryan
Authors: Pickel, B.
College/School:College of Arts & Humanities > School of Humanities > Philosophy
Journal Name:Dialectica
Publisher:Wiley
ISSN:0012-2017
ISSN (Online):1746-8361

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