Metaphysical Necessity

Metaphysical necessity refers to something that must be true in all possible worlds; it cannot be otherwise. For example, it is metaphysically necessary that 2+2=4, as this is true no matter the circumstances. In contrast, something that is merely possible or contingent could be different in another context. Understanding metaphysical necessity helps us explore concepts of identity and change by defining what must remain constant regardless of varying conditions, allowing us to distinguish between what is fundamentally true and what is subject to change.