Single Idea 15763

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / D. Laws of Nature / 8. Scientific Essentialism / b. Scientific necessity]

Full Idea

My theory of properties as causal appears to have the consequence that causal laws are logically necessary, and that causal necessity is just a species of logical necessity.

Gist of Idea

If properties are causal, then causal necessity is a species of logical necessity

Source

Sydney Shoemaker (Causality and Properties [1980], §09)

Book Reference

Shoemaker,Sydney: 'Identity, Cause and Mind' [OUP 2003], p.225


A Reaction

Where he writes 'logical' necessity I would claim that he really means 'metaphysical' necessity. The point, I take it, is that given the existence of those properties, certain causal efforts must always follow from them. I agree.