Favorite Philosophy Moves
When discussing a particular philosopher’s view, put an asterisk next to his name (e.g. Lewis*) to indicate that you're not actually committed to getting the view of the real philosopher (e.g. Lewis) completely right. (Cf. Divers - "The Modal Status of the Lewisian Analysis of Modality")
When the terms used have little bearing on the question you are asking, say something like this: “In the main text of the paper, I allow myself to speak in realism-friendly terms. If you find this to be a distraction, feel free to replace them with your favorite terms instead.” Just substitute your own terms if you don't like mine. Apply this rule only if larger questions in your field, such as metaethics (e.g. realism vs. antirealism) or metaphysics (e.g. nominalism vs. realism) are not at stake in your article. (See, for example, David Enoch, "A Defense of Moral Deference")
Stipulate that all issues related to your argument have been resolved or put to the side. In doing so, implicitly claim that they are not essential to the point you are trying to make.














