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In orthodox modal logic it is not possible to refer to the states (times, worlds, individuals...) in models. For many applications this shortcoming renders modal logic useless, in spite of its many attractive properties.
In their simplest form, hybrid logics are a form of modal logic in which reference to states (times, worlds, individuals...) is possible. This not only turns modal logic into a far more practical tool, it also improves its metalogical properties in a number of ways.
In this talk I will present an overview of hybrid logic, stressing the intuitions which have guided its development, indicating the uses to which it can be put, and generally trying to make clear exactly what advantages hybrid logic has over orthodox modal systems. Time permitting. I will also discuss recent work with Balder ten Cate, which tells us, in a precise sense, what basic hybrid logic really is.
This will be wide ranging talk aimed at a general audience. I won't assume that the audience has any background in modal or hybrid logic.