On the Causal Completeness of Physics

Author: Vicente, Agustín

Source: International Studies in the Philosophy of Science, Volume 20, Number 2, July 2006 , pp. 149-171(23)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

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Abstract:

According to an increasing number of authors, the best, if not the only, argument in favour of physicalism is the so‐called `overdetermination argument'. This argument, if sound, establishes that all the entities that enter into causal interactions with the physical world are physical. One key premise in the overdetermination argument is the principle of the causal closure of the physical world, said to be supported by contemporary physics. In this paper, I examine various ways in which physics may support the principle, either as a methodological guide or as depending on some other laws and principles of physics.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/02698590600814332

Publication date: 2006-07-01

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