A note on the transitivity of parthood

Abstract. That parthood is a transitive relation is among the most basic principles of classical mereology. Alas, it is also very controversial. In a recent paper, Ingvar Johansson has put forward a novel diagnosis of the problem, along with a corresponding solution. The diagnosis is on the right track, I argue, but the solution is misleading. And once the pieces are properly put together, we end up with a reinforcement of the standard defense of transitivity on behalf of classical mereology.

• Type: Journal
• Year: 2006
• Where: AO
• Authors: Achille C. Varzi
• Keywords: AO 2006, Basic Principles, Classical Mereology, Transitive Relation