The Myth of Generic Grounding
Journal
Erkenntnis
Journal Volume
87
Journal Issue
4
Pages
2053-2061
Date Issued
2022
Author(s)
Abstract
Motivated by avoiding a difficulty confronting the usual formulations of identity criteria, Fine (Philos Stud 173:1–19, 2016) has proposed and developed a generic account of grounding. In this paper, I examine two versions of the account (one in terms of arbitrary objects, and the other in terms of metaphysical laws). I argue that both proposals fail, as it is difficult to see how the strategy of ‘going generic’ can really solve the problem. I conclude that the idea of generic grounding is mysterious and unmotivated.
Type
journal article