Nominalismi

Nominalism is a philosophical position that holds that only individuals (or particulars) exist, and that universals (such as properties, qualities, or concepts) do not exist. Nominalists argue that terms like "red," "human," or "justice" refer directly to individual instances rather than abstract entities. This view contrasts with realism, which posits that universals have an independent existence.

Nominalism has been a significant philosophical position throughout history, with notable proponents including William of Ockham and John Stuart Mill. Ockham's Razor, a principle of parsimony, is often associated with nominalism, suggesting that simpler explanations are preferable to more complex ones. Nominalists often argue that the existence of universals leads to unnecessary complexity and metaphysical baggage.

There are several forms of nominalism. Substantive nominalism denies the existence of universals altogether, while nominalism of universals acknowledges that universals are used in language but denies that they have an independent existence. Predicate nominalism, on the other hand, holds that universals exist but are dependent on particulars.

Nominalism has been influential in various fields, including linguistics, where it has been used to explain the nature of language and meaning. It has also been a subject of debate in metaphysics, with arguments for and against the existence of universals continuing to this day. Despite its long history, nominalism remains a contentious and debated position in philosophy.