Newton's Third Rule and the Experimental Argument for Universal Gravity

This book provides a reading of Newton’s argument for universal gravity that is focused on the evidence-based, "experimental" reasoning that Newton associates with his program of experimental philosophy. It highlights the richness and complexity of the Principia and also draws important lessons about how to situate Newton in his natural philosophical context.

The book has two primary objectives. First, it defends a novel interpretation of the third of Newton’s four Rules for the Study of Na...