Single Idea 11921

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / D. Laws of Nature / 11. Against Laws of Nature]

Full Idea

What powers there are does not depend on what laws there are, but vice versa, what laws obtain in the world is a function of what powers are to be found in that world.

Gist of Idea

The laws of nature depend on the powers, not the other way round

Source

George Molnar (Powers [1998], 1.4.5)

Book Reference

Molnar,George: 'Powers: a study in metaphysics', ed/tr. Mumford,Stephen [OUP 2003], p.41


A Reaction

This old idea may well be the most important realisation of modern times. I take the 'law' view to be based on a religious view of the world (see Idea 5470). There is still room to believe in a divine creator of the bewildering underlying powers.

Related Idea

Idea 5470 The idea of laws of nature arose in the Middle Ages [Hall,AR, by Ellis]