Refutation of Determinism - An Essay in Philosophical Logic

Perhaps everyone who can think has the concept of possibility, but no one understands it. The metaphysical theory of Determinism is a symptom of this lack of understanding, and the inconclusiveness of its opponents' arguments indicates that the lack is universal. In this book, first published in 1968, the author shows that there are a number of different kinds on non-logical possibility, subtly interrelated, each requiring separate explanation. An original contribution to the subject, it is essential reading for all students of philosophy.

List of contents

1. Introduction 2. Probability and Possibility for Choice 3. Probability and Natural Powers 4. Some Unobservable Properties 5. Some Puzzles About Potentiality 6. The Powers of People and the Powers of Things 7. Ifs and Cans 8. Deliberation, Freedom and Meaning

About the author

M.R. Ayers

Summary

Perhaps everyone who can think has the concept of possibility, but no one understands it. The metaphysical theory of Determinism is a symptom of this lack of understanding, and the inconclusiveness of its opponents’ arguments indicates that the lack is universal. In this book, first published in 1968, the author shows that there are a number of different kinds on non-logical possibility, subtly interrelated, each requiring separate explanation. An original contribution to the subject, it is essential reading for all students of philosophy.

Product details

• Authors: M R Ayers, M. R. Ayers, M.r. Ayers
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd.
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 31.12.2018
• EAN: 9781138732094
• ISBN: 978-1-138-73209-4
• No. of pages: 198
• Series: Routledge Library Editions: Free Will and Determinism; Routledge Library Editions: Free Will and Determinism
• Subjects: Humanities, art, music > Philosophy > General, dictionaries; Non-fiction book > Philosophy, religion > Philosophy: general, reference works