Thinking of Necessity: A Kantian Account of Modal Thought and Modal Metaphysics

Thinking of Necessity: A Kantian Account of Modal Thought and Modal Metaphysics presents a Kant-inspired theory of modality that emphasizes the role of modal judgment in guiding metaphysics of modality. It argues that logical and metaphysical necessity are derived from the laws of thought and that metaphysical necessity is relative to objective thought conditions. The book develops a "Modal Transcendentalism" account of metaphysical necessity, addressing issues such as necessary and contingent existence, de re necessity, essentialism, and modal epistemology.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Thinking of Necessity: A Kantian Account of Modal Thought and Modal Metaphysics delves into a Kant-inspired theory of modality, encompassing the concepts of possibility and necessity. This theory is propelled by a methodology that takes into account the significance of modal judgment, specifically the role and purpose of judgments of possibility and necessity, in shaping a metaphysics of modality. Kant serves as an exemplary figure for developing this methodological approach, as he recognizes the crucial role of modal concepts in our ability to think and comprehend the world.

The book posits that logical modal concepts are essential for our cognitive faculties, while metaphysical modal concepts are necessary for objective thinking about the world. It further argues that logical necessity arises from the laws of thought, while metaphysical necessity is contingent upon the conditions of objective thought. This account of metaphysical necessity, known as "Modal Transcendentalism," is further developed to address questions related to necessary and contingent existence, de re necessity, essentialism, and modal epistemology.

While the theory of modality developed in this book draws inspiration from Kant's writings on modality, its development and defense are primarily independent of Kant's philosophical framework. The book offers a comprehensive exploration of modal concepts and their implications for metaphysics, providing a rich and nuanced account of the nature of possibility and necessity in our understanding of the world.

Weight: 542g
Dimension: 240 x 160 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198873969