The modern view of causation can be traced back to the mechanistic science of
Descartes, whose rejection of Aristotelian physics, with its concept of substantial
forms, in favor of mechanical explanations was a turning-point in the history of
philosophy. However the reasoning which led Descartes and other early moderns in this
direction is not well understood. For the first time, this book traces Descartes'
groundbreaking theory of scientific explanation back to the mathematical demonstrations
of Aristotelian mechanics and interprets these advances in light of the available
arguments for and against substantial forms. It also examines how Descartes' new
theory led him to develop a metaphysical foundation for his science that could avoid
skeptical objections. It will appeal to a wide range of readers interested in the
philosophy and science of the early modern period.

http://www.amazon.com/Descartes-Forms-Mechanisms-Helen-Hattab/dp/052151892X

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