Nominalism

Nominalism is the position in metaphysics that there exist no universals outside of the mind.

Related Topics:
Metaphysics - Universal

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Nominalism is best understood in contrast to realism. Philosophical realism holds that when we use descriptive terms such as "green" or "tree," the Forms of those concepts really exist, independently of world in an abstract realm. Such thought is associated with Plato. Nominalism, by contrast, holds that ideas represented by words have no real existence beyond our imaginations.

Related Topics:
Realism - Plato

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