Metaphysics: An Introduction

Description

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. In response to feedback from students and instructors, the Second Edition has been updated with new material in a range of chapters, including discussions of recent research concerning the nature of physical objects, time and modality. Recommended readings have been revised to ensure an improved gender balance while explanations and ideas are easier to follow. Together with a glossary and discussion questions, 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.

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

Metaphysics: An Introduction by 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 * Tallant's book is an excellent and wide-ranging introduction to metaphysics for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Difficult concepts are synthesised and explained in a straightforward and accessible manner, without sacrificing depth of discussion. The book's breadth enables the instructor to develop a number of interesting courses that use it as a core text, and its lively writing style promises to capture the interest of students at all levels. * Sam Baron, Lecturer of Philosophy, The University of Western Australia, Australia *