Material objects and essential bundle theory

Barker, Stephen; Jago, Mark

Abstract

In this paper we present a new metaphysical theory of material objects. On our theory, objects are bundles of property instances, where those properties give the nature or essence of that object. We call the theory essential bundle theory. Property possession is not analysed as bundle-membership, as in traditional bundle theories, since accidental properties are not included in the object’s bundle. We have a different story to tell about accidental property possession. This move reaps many benefits. Essential bundle theory delivers a simple theory of the essential properties of material objects; an explanation of how object coincidence can arise; an actual-world ground for modal differences between coincident objects; a simple story about intrinsic properties; and a plausible account of certain ubiquitous cases of causal overdetermination.

Citation

Barker, S., & Jago, M. (2017). Material objects and essential bundle theory. Philosophical Studies, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11098-017-0990-6

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Oct 3, 2017
• Online Publication Date: Oct 27, 2017
• Publication Date: Oct 27, 2017
• Deposit Date: Oct 13, 2017
• Publicly Available Date: Aug 15, 2018
• Journal: Philosophical Studies
• Print ISSN: 0554-0739
• Electronic ISSN: 2153-8379
• Publisher: Philosophy Documentation Center
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11098-017-0990-6
• Keywords: Ontology; Material objects; Bundle theory; Essence; Nature
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/885894
• Publisher URL: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11098-017-0990-6
• Contract Date: Aug 15, 2018