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Single Idea 4211

[from 'A Survey of Metaphysics' by E.J. Lowe, in 26. Natural Theory / C. Causation / 8. Particular Causation / c. Conditions of causation ]

Full Idea

In causation there is 'overdetermination' (c and d occurred, and were both sufficient for e), 'pre-emption' (c and d occurred, and d would have stepped in if c hadn't), or 'fail-safe' (if c hadn't occurred, d would have occurred and done it).

Gist of Idea

Causal overdetermination is either actual overdetermination, or pre-emption, or the fail-safe case

Source

E.J. Lowe (A Survey of Metaphysics [2002], p.179)

Book Reference

Lowe,E.J.: 'A Survey of Metaphysics' [OUP 2002], p.179


A Reaction

Two safety nets together, two safety nets spaced apart, or a second net which pops in if the first breaks. Nice distinctions.