The Continuous and the Discrete: Ancient Physical Theories from a Contemporary Perspective

by Michael J. White

Overview

This book presents a detailed analysis of three ancient models of spatial magnitude, time, and local motion. The Aristotelian model is presented as an application of the ancient, geometrically orthodox conception of extension to the physical world. The other two models, which represent departures from mathematical orthodoxy, are a "quantum" model of spatial magnitude, and a Stoic model, according to which limit entities such as points, edges, and surfaces do not exist in (physical) reality. The book is unique in its discussion of these ancient models within the context of later philosophical, scientific, and mathematical developments.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780198239529
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	06/18/1992
Pages:	360
Product dimensions:	8.50(w) x 5.50(h) x 0.94(d)
Lexile:	1610L (what's this?)

About the Author

Arizona State University, Tempe

Editorial Reviews

"An unusually productive approach to the history of philosophy, one that combines historical reconstruction through detailed technical analysis from within the perspective of the ancient theories."—Bryn Mawr Classical Review

"Scholarly, provocative, and persuasive....Highly recommended for concentrated collections in classics and in the philosophy of science."—Choice

"Though White's detailed analyses are thoughtful and original, the great virtue of the work lies in its raising new questions concerning the metaphysical underpinnings of the various ways both ancient and contemporary theoreticians have conceptualized continuity. The work will surely be a central reference for future treatments of these problems."—Ancient Philosophy

From the Publisher