Thinking About the Past and Experiencing the Past
Debus D (2013)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2013
Journal
Book Volume: 28
Pages Range: 20-54
Journal Issue: 1
DOI: 10.1111/mila.12006
Abstract
The present article aims to show that a subject can only fully grasp the concept of the past if she has some experiential, or recollective, memories of particular past events. More specifically, I argue that (1) in order for a subject to understand the concept of the past, it is necessary that the subject understand the concept of a particular past event in such a way that it might contribute to her understanding of the concept of the past. (2) But then, in order for a subject to understand the concept of a particular past event in such a way that it might contribute to her understanding of the concept of the past, it is necessary that the subject have some recollective memories of particular past events. (C) Hence, a subject can only understand the concept of the past if she has some recollective memories of particular past events. I defend the premises of the present argument against various objections, indicate why we should accept both premises, and accordingly end by endorsing the argument's conclusion. © 2013 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
Involved external institutions
United Kingdom (GB)How to cite
APA:
Debus, D. (2013). Thinking About the Past and Experiencing the Past. Mind & Language, 28(1), 20-54. https://doi.org/10.1111/mila.12006
MLA:
Debus, Dorothea. "Thinking About the Past and Experiencing the Past." Mind & Language 28.1 (2013): 20-54.
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