Single Idea 15474

[catalogued under 9. Objects / C. Structure of Objects / 8. Parts of Objects / c. Wholes from parts]

Full Idea

There is no causal work for the whole that is not done by the parts, provided the complex role of the parts is fully appreciated.

Gist of Idea

Properly understood, wholes do no more causal work than their parts

Source

C.B. Martin (The Mind in Nature [2008], 04.1)

Book Reference

Martin,C.B.: 'The Mind in Nature' [OUP 2008], p.35


A Reaction

It seems like a truth that because some parts are doing particular causal work (e.g. glue), the whole can acquire causal powers that the mereological sum of parts lacks.

Related Ideas

Idea 6141 There is no visible difference between statues, and atoms arranged statuewise [Merricks]

Idea 14469 Overdetermination: the atoms do all the causing, so the baseball causes no breakage [Merricks]