Abstract
A property modifier is a function that takes a property to a property. For instance, the modifier short takes the property being a Dutchman to the property being a short Dutchman. Assume that being a round peg is a property obtained by means of modification, round being the modifier and being a peg the input property. Then how are we to infer that a round peg is a peg? By means of a rule of right subsectivity. How are we to infer that a round peg is round? By means of a rule of left subsectivity. This paper puts forward two rules (one general, the other special) of left subsectivity. The rules fill a gap in the prevalent theory of property modification. The paper also explains why the rules are philosophically relevant.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 531-47 |
Journal | Dialectica |
Volume | 70 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2016 |