Conserved quantity theory: empirical analysis or metaphysical analysis of causation?

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Published 21-01-2025
Manuel Herrera

Abstract

Phil Dowe’s Conserved Quantity Theory (CQT) is based on the following theses: (a) CQT is the result of an empirical analysis and not a conceptual one, (b) CQT is metaphysically contingent, and (c) CQT is refutable. I argue, on the one hand, that theses (a), (b), and (c) are not only problematic in themselves, but also they are incompatible with each other and, on the other, that the choice of these theses is explained by the particular position that the author embraces regarding the relationship between metaphysics and physics.

How to Cite

Herrera, M. (2025). Conserved quantity theory: empirical analysis or metaphysical analysis of causation?. THEORIA. An International Journal for Theory, History and Foundations of Science, 39(3), 373–388. https://doi.org/10.1387/theoria.25154
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Keywords

physical causation, empirical analysis, metaphysical analysis, metaphysically contingent, metaphysically necessary

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