PL 774.01 Beyond Aristotle's Physics

This graduate course will consider the complex relationship between AristotleÕs physics and metaphysics from many different perspectives; e.g. method, content, and status as theoretical sciences. We will begin with AristotleÕs Categories as the essential background for his analysis of the principles of change in Physics I. We will continue by comparing AristotleÕs very similar treatment of the four causes in Physics II and Metaphysics I. After examining some key physical concepts such as nature and chance, motion, the Infinite, time and place, we will focus on his physical arguments in Physics VIII for the existence of an unmoved mover. Using this as a bridge to Metaphysics XII, we will consider the reasons why Aristotle held that his science of being qua being culminates in theology. This will involve a detailed examination of his treatment of substance in Metaphysics VII-IX, as well as his conception of the science of metaphysics in Books III-VI, as distinct from physics and mathematics.

Requirements:
Class participation (e.g. reading reports)
1 short paper on set topic (mid-term)
1 long research paper (final)

Required texts:
Aristotle, Categories; Physics; MetaphysicsJohn J. Cleary
Last Updated: 4/2/2003