Single Idea 14995

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / B. Properties / 10. Properties as Predicates]

Full Idea

For Armstrong a predicate is sparse when there exists a corresponding universal; for Lewis, a predicate is sparse when there exists a corresponding natural property or relation.

Gist of Idea

Predicates can be 'sparse' if there is a universal, or if there is a natural property or relation

Source

Theodore Sider (Writing the Book of the World [2011], 06)

Book Reference

Sider,Theodore: 'Writing the Book of the World' [OUP 2011], p.85


A Reaction

I like 'sparse' properties, but have no sympathy with Armstrong, and am cautious about Lewis. I like Shoemaker's account, which makes properties even sparser. 'Abundant' so-called properties are my pet hate. They are 'predicates'!