Single Idea 4238

[catalogued under 18. Thought / E. Abstraction / 5. Abstracta by Negation]

Full Idea

The centre of mass of the solar system seems to lack causal powers, and so is an abstract object, even though it has a location and movement.

Gist of Idea

The centre of mass of the solar system is a non-causal abstract object, despite having a location

Source

E.J. Lowe (A Survey of Metaphysics [2002], p.368)

Book Reference

Lowe,E.J.: 'A Survey of Metaphysics' [OUP 2002], p.368


A Reaction

Nice example, with rich ramifications. Abstraction is deeply tied into our understanding of the physical world, and our concept of identity.