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Preprint . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Preprint . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Preprint . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Preprint . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
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Reflexive Closure on Approximate Individuation - Naturalism without Special Pleading

Authors: Quénot, Georges;

Reflexive Closure on Approximate Individuation - Naturalism without Special Pleading

Abstract

This paper explores whether naturalism can remain a coherent metaphysical position without special pleading once exact individuation is no longer taken for granted. It develops a view called Approximative Realism, according to which objects, boundaries, identities, causes, meanings, and even agents are not exactly individuated but exist as sufficiently stable “as-if” patterns. The central idea is that this perspective becomes coherent only under a condition of reflexive closure: approximation must apply not only to the world but also to representation, reasoning, and theorising themselves. The paper does not argue from authority or empirical proof, but examines whether this inversion yields a consistent, unified framework that dissolves familiar puzzles (vagueness, persistence, subject–object dualism) while preserving ordinary practice.

Keywords

scientific realism, vagueness, reflexive closure, Metaphysics, naturalism, philosophy of mind, individuation

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
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