Aristotle and the Science of Nature Unity without Uniformity [Paperback]

Exploration of Aristotle's philosophy of nature in the light of scholarly insights.Aristotle's philosophy of nature is examined in the light of the argument that he regarded the natural world, and its study, as having a clear structure. Professor Falcon argues that Aristotle, though systematic, recognized the limitations of natural science and claimed that the natural world exhibits unity without uniformity.Aristotle's philosophy of nature is examined in the light of the argument that he regarded the natural world, and its study, as having a clear structure. Professor Falcon argues that Aristotle, though systematic, recognized the limitations of natural science and claimed that the natural world exhibits unity without uniformity.Aristotelian scholars have argued that he regarded the natural world, and its study, as possessing a unique structure. This book examines Aristotle's philosophy of nature in this light. Claiming that the natural world exhibits unity without uniformity, it demonstrates that although he systematically investigated nature, Aristotle never forgot to recognize the limitations of natural science. Arguing that his claim led to the conviction that the heavens are made of a unique body, Andrea Falcon's book is essential reading for all students of Aristotle's philosophy of nature.Preface; Acknowledgements; List of abbreviations and conventions; 1. The unity, structure and boundaries of Aristotle's science of nature; 2. Bodies; 3. Motions; 4. The limits of Aristotle's science of nature; Epilogue; Bibliography; Index of names; Index of passages; General index. ...well focused and clearly written book.
-Rosamond Kent Sprague, University of South Carolina, Ancient Philosophy Falcon's book will surely stir up discussion. It is an important, provocative, and well-argued work that contributes significantly to the field. Scholars, graduate students, and advanced undergraduates would benefit from giving it a careful and critical reading. &ll³-