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Single Idea 18526

[from 'The Universe as We Find It' by John Heil, in 26. Natural Theory / C. Causation / 8. Particular Causation / a. Observation of causation ]

Full Idea

I believe our understanding of causation would benefit from a shift of attention from causal sequences and laws, to instances of causation: 'causings'.

Gist of Idea

We should focus on actual causings, rather than on laws and causal sequences

Source

John Heil (The Universe as We Find It [2012], 06.1)

Book Reference

Heil,John: 'The Universe as We Find It' [OUP 2012], p.118


A Reaction

His aim is to get away from generalities, and focus on the actual operation of powers which is involved. He likes the case of two playing cards propped against one another. I'm on his side. Laws come last in the story, and should not come first.