Processes and their modal profile

A widely debated issue in contemporary metaphysics is whether the modal profile of ordinary objects has to be explained in non-modal terms (that is, Thesis 1). However, how to solve such an issue with respect to occurrences - namely, processes and events - is a question that has been largely neglected in the current metaphysical debate. The general goal of this article is to start filling this gap. As a first result of the article, we make it plausible that, if Thesis 1 holds for objects, then it also holds for processes and events. Then, we develop a metaphysical account of processes derived from Fine's (1999, 2022) suggestions, according to which a process is a variable embodiment that is manifested by different events at the different times it goes on - namely, Thesis 2. We raised the challenge from the completion of a process that asks the Finean account of processes to explain relevant modal features of processes in non-modal terms. As a second result, we argue that four initially plausible strategies for solving such a challenge fall short of solving it. As a third result, we show that the theory of variable embodiments Fine formulates for objects must differ from the theory of variable embodiments that aims to model processes. We conclude by investigating some revisions to a theory of variable embodiments that aims to model processes.

Automated summary

This article discusses the widely debated issue in contemporary metaphysics of whether the modal profile of ordinary objects needs to be explained in non-modal terms. It argues that if this holds true for objects, it should also apply to processes and events. The article then develops a metaphysical account of processes based on Fine's suggestions, proposing that a process is a variable embodiment manifested by different events over time. The article also raises a challenge for this account to explain modal features of processes in non-modal terms, and concludes by exploring revisions to the theory.