more from Sydney Shoemaker

Single Idea 15094

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / C. Powers and Dispositions / 3. Powers as Derived]

Full Idea

I now reject the formulation of the causal theory which says that a property is a cluster of conditional powers. That has a reductionist flavour, which is a cheat. We need properties to explain conditional powers, so properties won't reduce.

Gist of Idea

I now deny that properties are cluster of powers, and take causal properties as basic

Source

Sydney Shoemaker (Causal and Metaphysical Necessity [1998], III)

Book Reference

Shoemaker,Sydney: 'Identity, Cause and Mind' [OUP 2003], p.412


A Reaction

[compressed wording] I agree with Mumford and Anjum in preferring his earlier formulation. I think properties are broad messy things, whereas powers can be defined more precisely, and seem to have more stability in nature.