Metaphysics: An Introduction

by Jonathan Tallant

Overview

If the sentence 'my cat is on the mat' is true how does it get to be true? Sentences are made true by what exists. But what about claims such as 'There were dinosaurs?' and '2+2=4'. How do they get to be true?

Metaphysics: An Introduction uses the idea of truth and the quest for truth-makers to unravel philosophical problems in contemporary metaphysics. From the nature of properties and time to causation and objects, truth becomes a guiding theme to understanding metaphysical concepts and debates.

Now updated and expanded, this second edition presents a more comprehensive coverage of the field with new chapters on personal identity and free will. By focusing on method throughout, it offers the necessary skills and reasoning to tackle complex questions. Together with a glossary, discussion questions and guides to further reading, each chapter concludes with a series of mind maps to help visualise the logical space being explored and how the arguments push in different directions. Metaphysics: An Introduction is suitable for anyone studying metaphysical problems for the first time.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781350006706
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	09/21/2017
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	296
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.62(d)

About the Author

Jonathan Tallant is Associate Professor of Philosophy at The University of Nottingham, UK.

Table of Contents

1. An Introduction to Truth-making
2. The Special Composition Question: 'Physical' Objects
3. Abstract Objects
4. Modality
5. Properties
6. Substratum and Other Theories
7. Time
8. Persistence
9. Causation
10. Truth-making Reconsidered

References
Index

Editorial Reviews

Metaphysics: An Introductionby Jonathan Tallant is a great contemporary introduction to metaphysics. The book explores, in a very accessible way, composition, time, persistence, and causation. This is metaphysics viewed through the lens of truth-making and, as such, it engages with traditional metaphysical questions in a new, illuminating, and engaging manner.
Kristie Miller, Associate Professor of Philosophy, The University of Sydney, Australia

In Metaphysics: An Introduction, Jonathan Tallant offers an innovative way into a variety of foundational questions about the world around us. The textbook is an exciting and clear introduction to topics in contemporary metaphysics that are the focus of active debate among experts, and Tallant is a first-rate guide to this shifting and difficult terrain.
Daniel Nolan, McMahon-Hank Professor of Philosophy, University of Notre Dame, USA

This is an excellent introduction for students of metaphysics and pleasant reading for anyone interested in fundamental philosophical questions. It provides an accurate overviews of the major contemporary debates, and an engaging analysis of their central themes. Tallant treats each topic in a straightforward and appealing way, without ever sacrificing depth.
Giuliano Torrengo, Founder of the Center for Philosophy of Time and Senior Assistant Professor of Language, University of Milan, Italy

From the Publisher