In his Metaphysical Foundations of Natural Science (1786), Kant accounts for the possibility of an acting-at-a-distance gravitational force, demonstrates the infinite divisibility of matter, and derives analogues to Newtonian laws of motion. The work is his major statement in philosophy of science, and was especially influential in German-speaking countries in the nineteenth century. However, this complex text has not received the scholarly attention it deserves. The chapters of this Critical Guide clarify the accounts of matter, motion, the mathematization of nature, space, and natural laws exhibited in the Metaphysical Foundations; elucidate the relationship between its metaphysics of nature and Kant's critical philosophy; and describe the historical context for Kant's account of natural science. The volume will be an invaluable resource for understanding one of Kant's most difficult works, and will set the agenda for future scholarship on Kant's philosophy of science.

New essays on Kant's complex work, considering its place in his oeuvre and in the history of science.

About the Author
Michael Bennett McNulty is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Philosophy, University of Minnesota. He has published widely on various aspects of Kant's philosophy of science and philosophy of nature.


Book Information
ISBN 9781108701709
Author Michael Bennett McNulty
Format Paperback
Page Count 301
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 440g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 152mm * 16mm