Single Idea 23787

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / C. Causation / 8. Particular Causation / b. Causal relata]

Full Idea

It would be shocking if an account of causation ruled out the possibility of change. But if a cause perfectly overlaps its effect in time, then the rejection of change is precisely what follows.

Gist of Idea

If causes and effects overlap, that makes changes impossible

Source

Neil E. Williams (The Powers Metaphysics [2019], 07.6)

Book Reference

Williams,Neil E.: 'The Powers Metaphysics' [OUP 2019], p.170


A Reaction

He cites Kant, Martin, Heil and Mumford/Anjum for this view. The latter seem to see causation as a 'process' (allowing change), which Williams as ruled out. The Williams point must be correct.

Related Ideas

Idea 14560 A ball denting a pillow seems like simultaneous cause and effect, though time identifies which is cause [Kant]

Idea 14533 Causation doesn't have two distinct relata; it is a single unfolding process [Mumford/Anjum]