Question

This is a question more about how we can discuss about objects which no longer exist. For example, let's say that Socrates no longer exists (ignore any religious side of this and consider Socrates as simply being a physical entity) how come we can still use past tense language to discuss about him?

If we say that existence is a mandatory property of an object then Socrates IS not an object, however Socrates WAS an object, as Socrates does not exist, but has existed. This presents several issues for me, how can Socrates, not being an object, be an element of my domain of discourse when a set is defined as a 'collection of objects'?

How can Socrates be a referent in my language when Socrates is not an object? This would suggest that 'Socrates' does not denote anything, which it clearly does.

Answer 1

When discussing objects from the past, such as Socrates, we can still use past tense language to refer to them. While Socrates may no longer exist as a physical entity, he is still a valid subject of study and thought. Language allows us to refer to individuals and events from the past and discuss their significance.

Step-by-step explanation:

When discussing objects that no longer exist, such as Socrates, we can use past tense language because language allows us to refer to and talk about entities that existed in the past. Even though Socrates is no longer physically present, his existence in history and impact on philosophy make him a valid topic of discussion. In philosophy and history, we often use language to refer to individuals and events from the past in order to analyze and understand them.

While it is true that Socrates is not a current physical object, he is still an object of study and thought. In the domain of discourse, Socrates can be considered an object of thought and analysis. We can apply past tense language to refer to his existence in history and his contributions to philosophy.

The language we use, including names like 'Socrates', still carries meaning and refers to specific individuals, even if they no longer exist. 'Socrates' denotes the historical figure and his impact on philosophy, allowing us to engage in discussions and debates about his ideas and influence.