In a series of thought-provoking and original essays, eighteen leading philosophers engage in head-to-head debates of nine of the most cutting edge topics in contemporary metaphysics.
- Explores the fundamental questions in contemporary metaphysics in a series of eighteen original essays - 16 of which are newly commissioned for this volume
- Features an introductory essay by the editors on the nature of metaphysics to prepare the reader for ongoing discussions
- Offers readers the unique opportunity to observe leading philosophers engage in head-to-head debate on cutting-edge metaphysical topics
- Provides valuable insights into the flourishing field of contemporary metaphysics
Notes on contributors.
Introduction.
I. Abstract entities.
1.1 Abstract entities: Chris Swoyer (University of Oklahoma).
1.2 There are no abstract objects: Cian Dorr (University of Pittsburgh).
II. Causation and laws of nature.
2.1 Nailed to Hume’s cross?: John W. Carroll (North Carolina State University).
2.2 Causation and laws of nature: Reductionism: Jonathan Schaffer (University of Massachusetts-Amherst).
III. Modality and possible worlds.
3.1 Concrete possible worlds: Phillip Bricker(University of Massachusetts- Amherst).
3.2 Ersatz possible worlds: Joseph Melia (University of Leeds).
IV. Personal identity.
4.1 People and their bodies: Judith Jarvis Thomson (MIT).
4.2 Persons, bodies, and human beings: Derek Parfit (All Souls College, Oxford).
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