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  • Cited by 26
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    • Publisher:
      Acumen Publishing
      Publication date:
      Invalid date
      March 2003
      ISBN:
      9781902683478
      9781902683485
      DOI:
      https://doi.org/10.1017/UPO9781844653348
      Dimensions:
      Weight & Pages:
      00kg,
      Dimensions:
      Weight & Pages:
      00kg,
      • Subjects:
      Logic, Philosophy
      Series:
      Central Problems of Philosophy
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    Subjects:
    Logic, Philosophy
    Series:
    Central Problems of Philosophy
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    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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