Ross D. Inman - Böcker

Substance and the Fundamentality of the Familiar explicates and defends a novel neo-Aristotelian account of the structure of material objects. While there have been numerous treatments of properties, laws, causation, and modality in the neo-Aristotelian metaphysics literature, this book is one of the first full-length treatments of wholes and their parts. Another aim of the book is to further develop the newly revived area concerning the question of fundamental mereology, the question of whether wholes are metaphysically prior to their parts or vice versa. Inman develops a fundamental mereology with a grounding-based conception of the structure and unity of substances at its core, what he calls substantial priority, one that distinctively allows for the fundamentality of ordinary, medium-sized composite objects. He offers both empirical and philosophical considerations against the view that the parts of every composite object are metaphysically prior, in particular the view that ascribes ontological pride of place to the smallest microphysical parts of composite objects, which currently dominates debates in metaphysics, philosophy of science, and philosophy of mind. Ultimately, he demonstrates that substantial priority is well-motivated in virtue of its offering a unified solution to a host of metaphysical problems involving material objects.

Substance and the Fundamentality of the Familiar explicates and defends a novel neo-Aristotelian account of the structure of material objects. While there have been numerous treatments of properties, laws, causation, and modality in the neo-Aristotelian metaphysics literature, this book is one of the first full-length treatments of wholes and their parts. Another aim of the book is to further develop the newly revived area concerning the question of fundamental mereology, the question of whether wholes are metaphysically prior to their parts or vice versa. Inman develops a fundamental mereology with a grounding-based conception of the structure and unity of substances at its core, what he calls substantial priority, one that distinctively allows for the fundamentality of ordinary, medium-sized composite objects. He offers both empirical and philosophical considerations against the view that the parts of every composite object are metaphysically prior, in particular the view that ascribes ontological pride of place to the smallest microphysical parts of composite objects, which currently dominates debates in metaphysics, philosophy of science, and philosophy of mind. Ultimately, he demonstrates that substantial priority is well-motivated in virtue of its offering a unified solution to a host of metaphysical problems involving material objects.

Is divine simplicity coherent? Is there adequate theological and philosophical motivation for the doctrine? Does it undermine God’s freedom in creation? Does it help or hinder Trinitarian doctrine? For the first time in a multi-view format, a team of renowned proponents and critics of divine simplicity come together to consider these questions and discuss the intrinsic merits of the doctrine. With contributors presenting Thomistic, Anselmian, Eastern Orthodox and Scotistic views, as well as a sustained and considered critique, this unique structure makes for a genuine discussion and developed exploration of the key issues at stake. Chapters evaluate the coherence and interpretation of divine simplicity, assessing which version is worthy of assent, and set out the motivations in favour of the doctrine. Divine freedom, the contingency of creation and the doctrine of the Trinity are also considered in light of theological arguments against divine simplicity.A valuable resource for any scholar or student of philosophy of religion and theology, Contemplating Divine Simplicity brings into dialogue diverse views of five thinkers, tracing the arguments in favour of divine simplicity from divine aseity.