On the origins of order: non-symmetric or only symmetric relations?

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Abstract

In this paper I argue for the existence of non-symmetric relations. Armstrong and Dorr have argued that (1) non-symmetric relations are trouble, and (2) that we don’t need non-symmetric relations because we can make do with symmetric relations when it comes to accounting for the order we find in nature. But, I argue, Armstrong and Dorr are wrong about both (1) and (2). Their efforts to do without non-symmetric relations presuppose them, whilst their arguments that non-symmetric relations are subject to a tu quoque response. This paper contributes a further plank to the ostrich realism about relations that I advocate in Macbride (2013).
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe Problem of Universals in Contemporary Philosophy
EditorsGabriele Galluzzo, Michael J. Loux
Place of PublicationCambridge
PublisherCambridge University Press
Pages173-194
Number of pages22
ISBN (Print)9781107100893
Publication statusPublished - 2015

Keywords

  • Relations
  • universals
  • Humeanism
  • Dorr
  • Armstrong
  • Non-symmetric

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