O problema dos universais a partir do empirismo inglês

Abstract

The objective of this monograph is to deepen the discussions that revolve around the problem of universals, starting from the analysis of Locke and Hume's proposals in relation to abstract ideas and general terms. For these two philosophers, the solution to the question involves the rejection of realism, which is a theory strongly defended by tradition and still present in philosophical thought today. In this monograph we will talk about the advances achieved by English empiricism, as well as the weak points of its arguments. We will argue that it is possible to construct a definitive refutation of realism, based on the contribution of these two authors in the area of epistemology and on the evidence revealed by the advancement of science. We will also present an objection to essentialism, based on Hume's proposal. Finally, we will show how the legacy of these two philosophers contributed to the progress of the cognitive sciences.