Physics: Books I and II (Clarendon Aristotle Series)

Description

In the first two books of the Physics Aristotle discusses philosophical issues involved in the investigation of the physical universe. He introduces his distinction between form and matter and his fourfold classification of causes or explanatory factors, and defends teleological explanation. These books therefore form a natural entry into Aristotle's system as a whole, and also occupy an important place in the history of scientific thought. The present volume provides a close literal translation, which can be used by serious students without Greek. The introduction and commentary deal with the interpretation and assessment, from a philosophical standpoint, of what Aristotle says. This translation was first published in 1970. Cover Title Page Copyright Preface CONTENTS Introduction TRANSLATION BOOK I BOOK II Notes on the Text and Translation COMMENTARY BOOK I BOOK II Appendix: Did Aristotle Believe in Prime Matter? Note on Recent Work Revised Bibliography Glossary Index