The Metaphysics of Contingency: A Theory of Objects’ Abilities and Dispositions

According to Ferenc Huoranszki, the approach of modal properties is more plausible than the world-account when it comes to explaining the nature of possibilities within worlds. He argues that abilities and dispositions are real, first-order modal properties of objects, with distinct ontological roles. By understanding abilities as first-order modal properties and linking them to counterfactual conditionals, Huoranszki distinguishes between variably generic or specific abilities and identifies more or less abstract possibilities in a world. This book advances current debates in contemporary metaphysics by providing a novel account of dispositions, abilities, and their capacity to explain modality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Philosophers approach the problem of possibility in two distinct ways: with reference to worlds, where an event is possible if there is a world in which it occurs, and with reference to modal properties, where an event is a possible manifestation of a property of some substance or object. While the world-account attempts to explain possibilities within worlds, Ferenc Huoranszki argues that the latter approach is more plausible. He develops a theory of contingent possibilities grounded in a distinction between abilities and dispositions as real, first-order modal properties of objects, with fundamentally distinct ontological roles. By understanding abilities as first-order modal properties and linking them to counterfactual conditionals, Huoranszki argues that we can distinguish between variably generic or specific abilities and identify more or less abstract possibilities within a world. This approach furthers our understanding of how we reason with possibilities in both ordinary and theoretical contexts.

Providing a novel account of dispositions, abilities, and their capacity to explain modality, this book advances current debates in contemporary metaphysics. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the nature of possibility and its implications for our understanding of the world. By challenging traditional views and proposing new frameworks, Huoranszki's work contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex and fascinating realm of metaphysics.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350277182