Aristotelian Explorations

by G. E. R. Lloyd

Overview

This book challenges several widespread views concerning Aristotle's methods and practices of scientific and philosophical research. Taking central topics in psychology, zoology, astronomy and politics, Professor Lloyd explores generally unrecognized tensions between Aristotle's deeply held a priori convictions and his remarkable empirical honesty in the face of complexities in the data or perceived difficult or exceptional cases. The picture that emerges of Aristotle's actual engagement in scientific research and of his own reflections on that research is substantially more complex than is usually allowed.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521556194
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	06/28/1999
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	254
Product dimensions:	5.98(w) x 9.02(h) x 0.59(d)

Table of Contents

Introduction: reading Aristotle; 1. The theories and practices of demonstration; 2. The relationship of psychology to zoology; 3. Fuzzy natures?; 4. The master cook; 5. Spontaneous generation and metamorphosis; 6. The varieties of perception; 7. The unity of analogy; 8. Heavenly aberrations: Aristotle the amateur astronomer; 9. The idea of nature in the Politics; 10. The metaphors of metaphora.

Editorial Reviews

"The author challenges widespread views concerning both the theoretical and practical sides to Aristotle's approach...." Review of Metaphysics

"This book will interest those concerned with the effect that Aristotle's empirical investigations had on his more theoretical views." Norman O. Dahl, Religious Studies Review

From the Publisher