Abstract

In this paper I raise a number of objections to the claim that there are intrinsic properties. I first show that, by functioning as realizers of all other properties, intrinsic properties ground one of the most popular methods for counting individuals. Then, I introduce the five main definitions of intrinsicness, all appealing to a certain form of independency. Hence, I question the claim that there are intrinsic properties on two grounds: first by raising three objections to the thesis that we know of their existence a posteriori; then, by showing that our arguments for concluding of their existence a priori are inconclusive. I conclude that we ought to be skeptical about the existence of intrinsic properties. If we still have aims of counting individuals, we ought to endorse an alternative view.