Philosophical Issues in Aristotle's Biology

Description

Aristotle's biological works - constituting over 25 per cent of his surviving corpus and for centuries largely unstudied by philosophically oriented scholars - have been the subject of an increasing amount of attention of late. This collection brings together some of the best work that has been done in this area, with the aim of exhibiting the contribution that close study of these treatises can make to the understanding of Aristotle's philosophy. The book is divided into four parts, each with an introduction which places its essays in relation to each other and to the wider issues of the book as a whole. The first part is an overview of the relationship of Aristotle's biology to his philosophy; the other three each concentrate on a set of issues central to Aristotelian study - definition and demonstration; teleology and necessity in nature; and metaph themes such as the unity of matter and form and the nature of substance.

'This excellently planned and produced anthology is the proper answer to a long-felt need for the study of Aristotle's biological work ... Particular attention is paid to the relationship of biology as a distinct inquiry and a set of principles to the broader philosophical problems of scientific knowledge and logic ... Highly recommended for advanced students and specialists.' J. P. Anton, Choice 'The collection represents some of the finest work currently being done on Aristotle's philosophy, and its comprehensive scope and unified theme will make the book most valuable to all who are interested in Aristotle's philosophy or the history and philosophy of biology.' Mary Louise Gill, Isis 'The book will be essential reading for anyone working on substance, form, definition, teleology, etc. for a long time to come ...'. Malcolm Schofield, Phronesis 'Indeed the whole book is a mine of good things; Gotthelf, Lennox, and the other contributors deserve our congratulations and encouragement.' John Rist, Phoenix 'It is obvious that Aristotelian studies has gained a new vitality, and the book is ... a shining example of how the philosophy of science can enlighten the general history of ideas.' Gunnar Erikson, Lychnos (translated)