Full Idea
What powers there are does not depend on what laws there are, but vice versa, what laws obtain in the world is a function of what powers are to be found in that world.
Gist of Idea
The laws of nature depend on the powers, not the other way round
Source
George Molnar (Powers [1998], 1.4.5)
Book Reference
Molnar,George: 'Powers: a study in metaphysics', ed/tr. Mumford,Stephen [OUP 2003], p.41
A Reaction
This old idea may well be the most important realisation of modern times. I take the 'law' view to be based on a religious view of the world (see Idea 5470). There is still room to believe in a divine creator of the bewildering underlying powers.
Related Idea
Idea 5470 The idea of laws of nature arose in the Middle Ages [Hall,AR, by Ellis]