Argumenta – Journal of Analytic Philosophy

The Feasibility Approach to Imagination as a Guide to Metaphysical Modality [Special Issue]

Topics: Epistemology, Metaphysics, Modal Logic, Ontology, Philosophy of logic, Theoretical philosophy
Keywords: Conceivability, imagination, Modality, possibility

 

I present a novel approach to modal imagination as a means of knowing metaphysical possibilities. Hume calls the link between imagining and possibility an ‘established maxim’. I ask: what makes it seem so natural to use imagination as a guide to modality? (1.) I draw some lessons on my motivational question from the current debate. (2.) I develop my answer: we use imagination to creatively simulate solutions to feasibility issues. (2.1.) To corroborate my answer, I consider everyday feasibility issues. (2.2.) I then extend the account to more remote feasibility issues. (2.3.) I point out a special connection between imagination and creativity (3.) I show how the feasibility approach bears on issues of metaphysical possibility. (3.1.) I outline how imagination allows to retrieve and test modal constraints. (3.2.) I support my argument by examples from the philosophical debate. (3.3.) I answer my original motivational question. (4.) I address objections.

There is a long-standing philosophical tradition of using imagination as a guide to modal knowledge (‘modal imagination’). As Hume put it:

Tis an establish’d maxim in metaphysics, That whatever the mind clearly conceives includes the idea of possible existence, or in other words, that nothing we imagine is absolutely impossible (Hume 1739-40: 1.2.2.8, 32).

Yet what makes it seem so natural to use imagination as a guide to modality? I shall develop one answer to this motivational question. I concentrate on metaphysical possibility, setting aside necessity for reasons of…

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