THE NATURE OF MODAL FACTS

Abstract

This paper explores the nature of modal facts, such as the fact that Socrates might not have been a philosopher or that Socrates is necessarily human. First, we provide a characterization of such facts from a metaphysical standpoint, avoiding a purely linguistic approach. Second, we present a classification and discussion of various contemporary theories concerning the nature and grounding of modal facts. Finally, we offer a positive, though provisional, assessment of the “subjectivist” view that modal facts are grounded in facts about linguistic and conceptual practices.