WHAT IS POSSIBLE AND WHAT IS PERMITTED: HINTIKKA AND PRIOR
WHAT IS POSSIBLE AND WHAT IS PERMITTED: HINTIKKA AND PRIOR

Summary/Abstract: Hintikka’s theorem is controversial, since it provides that what is not possible is not permitted. However, a demonstration of it is to be found in an old document authored by Prior and that, nevertheless, was published just in 2012. In this paper, I analyze the system presented by Prior in that document and argue that it can be an interesting research instrument, as several very reasonable ideas can also be proved by means of it. Likewise, based on the mental models theory, I review the psychological reasons that, despite that, can lead individuals to reject Hintikka’s theorem. In addition, some reflections about how the theorem should be understood and its potential are included as well.

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