Nominalism

Classification

Position level

specific

Domains

Metaphysics

Overview

Only particular things exist; universals are concepts or names the mind applies to groups of similar particulars, not real entities in the world. This follows Ockham's razor: positing universals as things in addition to particulars multiplies entities beyond what explanation requires.

Position on

• The Problem of Universals

Held by traditions

• Medieval Nominalism

  Question scope: The Problem of Universals

Incompatible positions

• Platonic Realism

  Question scope: The Problem of Universals

• Moderate Realism

  Question scope: The Problem of Universals

References

• William of Ockham, Summa Logicae I.15 (universals as concepts, not things)
• Plato, Phaedo 74a–77a and 100c–e (the Equal itself and participation); Republic V, 475e–480a