Relational modality (Q1024817)

The paper offers an alternative to Kripke's explanation of the distinction between (proper) names and definite descriptions. According to the authors, the difference in scope behaviour between names and descriptions can be given in terms of semantics of modal expressions instead of the distinction of intensions of names and descriptions. This thesis is specified by defining `relational modality', where simple singular terms ``contribute to modal contexts simply by their actual world reference''. This actualist theory differs from other such theories, which use the `actuality operator' and let it affect the evaluation not only of terms but also of predicates. Three semantics are defined and equivalence of relational modality with rigidity semantics is proved.