Thinking the Impossible
Arguments for Impossible Worlds in Semantics
Tom Schoonen

Abstract:
This dissertation defends the use of impossible worlds in natural language semantics, by providing two arguments. First, a methodological argument is made, showing that the use of world postulates in semantics does not commit the semanticist to the ontological existence of worlds. Secondly, the argument from utility for impossible worlds is strengthened by providing a step towards a formal ordering of impossible worlds to improve the semantics of counterpossibles. Together, these arguments show that the use of impossible worlds in semantics is vindicated by their usefulness in capturing certain features of natural language.