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Single Idea 16708

[from 'Principia Mathematica' by Isaac Newton, in 27. Natural Reality / A. Classical Physics / 1. Mechanics / c. Forces ]

Full Idea

Newton's reliance on the notion of force was widely criticised as marking in effect a return to real qualities.

Gist of Idea

Newton's forces were accused of being the scholastics' real qualities

Source

comment on Isaac Newton (Principia Mathematica [1687]) by Robert Pasnau - Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671 19.7

Book Reference

Pasnau,Robert: 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' [OUP 2011], p.426


A Reaction

The objection is to forces that are separate from the bodies they act on. This is one of the reasons why modern metaphysics needs the concept of an intrinsic disposition or power, placing the forces in the stuff.

Related Idea

Idea 16709 Some people return to scholastic mysterious qualities, disguising them as 'forces' [Leibniz]