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The Ontology of Physical Objects: Four-Dimensional Hunks of Matter

Paperback / softback

Main Details

Title The Ontology of Physical Objects: Four-Dimensional Hunks of Matter
Authors and Contributors      By (author) Mark Heller
SeriesCambridge Studies in Philosophy
Physical Properties
Format:Paperback / softback
Pages:180
Dimensions(mm): Height 216,Width 140
Category/GenrePhilosophy - metaphysics and ontology
ISBN/Barcode 9780521069496
ClassificationsDewey:111 111
Audience
Professional & Vocational
Illustrations Worked examples or Exercises

Publishing Details

Publisher Cambridge University Press
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publication Date 31 July 2008
Publication Country United Kingdom

Description

This provocative book attempts to resolve traditional problems of identity over time. It seeks to answer such questions as 'How is it that an object can survive change?' and 'How much change can an object undergo without being destroyed'? To answer these questions Professor Heller presents a theory about the nature of physical objects and about the relationship between our language and the physical world. According to his theory, the only actually existing physical entities are what the author calls 'hunks', four-dimensional objects extending across time and space. This is a major contribution to ontological debate and will be essential reading for all philosophers concerned with metaphysics.

Reviews

From the hardback review: 'His arguments are based on some important ideas ... that I would like to see thrust on center stage of current discussions.' James van Cleve, Brown University