Abstract:
In this talk, I examine the nature and role of imaginables, i.e. some kinds of impossible non-entities, in Marsilius of Inghen’s logic and natural philosophy, in contrast with Albert of Saxony’s. I begin by analysing what kind of non-entities are imaginable and their purpose in 14th century rational philosophy, as well as introducing their principal occurrences within Marsilius’ works. I then examine Marsilius’ use of those imaginables that are merely relatively impossible, as instances of idealisation and abstraction, in Consequences II and in the Questions on Aristotle’s Physics. I thus focus on absolutely impossible imaginables, beginning with the matter of their being signifiable and understandable. Finally, I examine Marsilius’ theory of ampliation to the imaginable.