Nature's Metaphysics: Laws and Properties

by Alexander Bird

Nature's Metaphysics argues that a satisfactory philosophy of science requires a metaphysics that is based on the understanding that causal properties are essentially dispositional properties. Alexander Bird develops and defends a dispositional essentialist account of the laws of nature, and also examines dispositional accounts of explanation, causation, ceteris paribus laws, substances and kinds. Professional philosophers and advanced students working in metaphysics and the philosophy of science will find this book both provocative and stimulating.

Genres: Philosophy, Metaphysics, Science

246 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Tuomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a classic, of course, but I only read it through in its entirety this year. Methodologically, I made a specific note of the amounts of Lewis-style cost/benefit analysis, which was ultimately backed up by pure 'intuition' more often than one might hope -- but this is something that Bird has acknowledged himself. Anyway, everyone interested in metaphysics/philosophy of science should read this book!

[Edmundo · Rating 4 out of 5]

very good and technical!