Essences and modal space
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Abstract
This work discusses some difficulties for an actualist modal metaphysics. In particular it considers the question whether the actualist could give a reasonable account of non-actual possible individuals. Several proposals are examined with especial attention to the introduction of individual essences by Plantinga. Plantinga’s essences present several difficulties that are discussed and, finally, resolved. Although it may seem that individual essences are inappropriate for the theoretical task that an actualist metaphysics requires, a more detailed examination shows that the criticism misunderstands the way in which those essences are to be construed. In particular, it is contented here that encaptic properties are the solution to the predicament of the actualist.
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