Critical Introduction to Fictionalism

<p><i>A Critical Introduction to Fictionalism</i> provides a clear and comprehensive understanding of an important alternative to realism. Drawing on questions from ethics the philosophy of religion art mathematics logic and science this is a complete exploration of how fictionalism contrasts with other non-realist doctrines and motivates influential fictionalist treatments across a range of philosophical issues. <p/>Defending and criticizing influential as well as emerging fictionalist approaches this accessible overview discuses physical objects universals God moral properties numbers and other fictional entities. Where possible it draws general lessons about the conditions under which a fictionalist treatment of a class of items is plausible. Distinguishing fictionalism from other views about the existence of items it explains the central features of this key metaphysical topic. <p/>Featuring a historical survey definitions of key terms characterisations of important subdivisions objections and problems for fictionalism and contemporary fictionalist treatments of several issues <i>A Critical Introduction to Fictionalism</i> is a valuable resource for students of metaphysics as well as students of philosophical methodology. It is the only book of its kind.</p>