Ulrich Meyer

Title

Conventionalism about topology

Abstract

This paper argues that realism about space-time topology is metaphysically extravagant -- it makes distinctions without observable differences -- and that topological conventionalism ought to be preferred as the more frugal alternative. There is a way around this argument, but it requires that we reject Hume's thesis that there are no necessary connections between distinct existences. In other words, topological realists need to be anti-Humeans.

Date / Time / Place

June 21st / 11:30