Single Idea 15310

[catalogued under 14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / j. Explanations by reduction]

Full Idea

Solidity is the effect of a power of repulsion between whole things, and shape is the effect of a power of attraction between parts of whole things.

Gist of Idea

Solidity comes from the power of repulsion, and shape from the power of attraction

Source

Harré,R./Madden,E.H. (Causal Powers [1975], 9.II.B)

Book Reference

Harré,R/Madden,E.H.: 'Causal Powers: A Theory of Natural Necessity' [Blackwell 1975], p.172


A Reaction

This sounds a bit too neat in its division, but it shows nicely how a metaphysics with powers can deal with categorical properties. The question, remains, though of what is doing the repelling and attracting. Fields, they say.