Single Idea 13596

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / C. Powers and Dispositions / 6. Dispositions / b. Dispositions and powers]

Full Idea

A causal power is a disposition of something to produce forces of a certain kind.

Gist of Idea

A causal power is a disposition to produce forces

Source

Brian Ellis (Scientific Essentialism [2001], 3.09)

Book Reference

Ellis,Brian: 'Scientific Essentialism' [CUP 2007], p.128


A Reaction

Hence when Leibniz was putting all his emphasis on the origin of the forces in nature, he was referring to exactly what we mean by 'powers'. From Ellis's formulation, I take powers to be more basic than dispositions. Does he realise this?