Powers, processes, and time

Giannini, Giacomo ORCID: 0000-0001-9427-937X (2022) Powers, processes, and time. Erkenntnis, 87 (6). 2801 - 2825. ISSN 0165-0106

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Abstract

In this paper I argue that even the most radical metaphysics of powers (such as that adopted by Mumford and Anjum, Cartwright, or Groff) are compatible with eternalism. I first offer a taxonomy of powers ontologies, and attempt to characterise the difference between moderate and radical powers ontologies—the latter are characterised by an emphasis on production and dynamicity. I consider an argument by C. Friebe to the effect that the productive character of powers is inconsistent with Eternalism and find it wanting. I then elucidate the notion of dynamicity that radical powers theorists employ by making apparent their link with an ontology of irreducible processes. Finally, I respond to an argument by Donatella Donati to the effect that eternalism entails a reductive account of change which is inconsistent with process ontologies, and show that the the two are compatible. I conclude that we have no reason to think that radical powers metaphysics (and, a fortiori, every powers ontology) are not compatible with eternalism.

Item Type:	Article
Official URL:	https://www.springer.com/journal/10670
Additional Information:	© 2021 Springer Nature B.V.
Divisions:	Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method LSE Health
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > B Philosophy (General)
Date Deposited:	25 Mar 2021 14:24
Last Modified:	12 Dec 2024 02:29
URI:	http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/109313

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