| Description |
xi, 212 pages : illustrations, ; 23 cm |
| Series |
Contemporary philosophy |
|
Contemporary philosophy (Cambridge, Mass.)
|
| Contents |
1. Metaphysics -- 2. Numbers -- 3. Platonism -- 4. Identity -- 5. Is truth "relative" -- 6. Color -- 7. Determinism, freedom, and fatalism -- 8. Modality -- 9. Things and their parts -- 10. Is there truth in fiction? |
| Summary |
This intelligible yet challenging survey aims to introduce the student to central metaphysical issues while at the same time pursuing a coherent metaphysical view. The range of topics discussed is refreshingly different from the average metaphysics introduction, thereby making it ideal for upper-division undergraduates and beginning graduate students. The author sets the scene by taking the student through general theoretical matters, including discussions on the nature of metaphysics and the nature of concepts, and offering a general conception of the nature of philosophy. He then proceeds to address a diversity of metaphysical issues, ranging from color to modality to the nature of physical objects through to the question of truth in fiction. Exercises designed to stimulate further talking and to indicate further dimensions of the topics are posed throughout the book to encourage a more advanced study of the discipline |
| Notes |
Includes index |
|
Material presented was originally developed for courses taught by the author at the University of Calif., Davis, Philosophy Dept |
| Subject |
Metaphysics.
|
| LC no. |
96052895 |
| ISBN |
1557868581 (alk. paper) |
|
155786859X (paperback: alk. paper) |
|
