The Physical Basis of Predication
The Physical Basis of Predication
This is a book about some of the basic concepts of metaphysics: universals, particulars, causality, and possibility. Its aim is to give an account of the real constituents of the world.
The author defends a realistic view of universals, characterizing the notion of universal by considering language and logic, possibility, hierarchies of universals, and causation. On the other hand, he argues that logic and language are not reliable guides to the nature of reality. All assertions and predications about the natural world are ultimately founded on "basic universals," which are the fundamental type of universal and central to causation. A distinction is drawn between unified particulars (which have a natural principle of unity) and arbitrary particulars (which lack such a principle); unified particulars are the terms of causal relations and thus real constituents of the world. Arbitrary particulars such as events, states of affairs, and sets have no ontological significance.
Reviews & endorsements
"Newman's presentation of his own theory is thorough and solidly argued, and his criticisms of rival doctrines are generally quite persuasive." Review of Metaphysics
"Throughout, the book is very clearly written, and shows an impressive grasp of the relevant literature." Sydney Shoemaker, Cornell University
Product details
July 2007Paperback
9780521037617
288 pages
215 × 133 × 16 mm
0.384kg
Available
Table of Contents
- Acknowledgements
- Introduction
- 1. 'Real constituents of the world'
- 2. What can logic and language tell us about reality?
- 3. The 'existence' of universals and the notion of possibility
- 4. The causal significance of basic attributes
- 5. Hierarchies of universals
- 6. Causal relations
- 7. Arbitrary particulars and unified particulars
- 8. Further considerations concerning the causal relation
- 9. Arbitrary particulars and physical objects
- Bibliography
- Index.
