Counterfactuals

Counterfactuals is a seminal work by philosopher David Lewis, first published in 1973, that profoundly influences the study of metaphysics, logic, and philosophy of language. In this groundbreaking text, Lewis develops a rigorous analysis of counterfactual conditionals—statements about what could have been the case under different circumstances, such as "If it had rained, the ground would be wet."

Lewis introduces the framework of possible world semantics to explain the truth conditions of counterfactuals. He argues that such statements are true if, in the closest possible world where the antecedent is true, the consequent also holds. This approach not only formalises the evaluation of counterfactuals but also provides insights into causation, decision theory, and scientific explanation.

Renowned for its clarity and depth, Counterfactuals remains a cornerstone of philosophical inquiry, shaping contemporary debates about modality, the nature of possibility, and the structure of logical reasoning. It is essential reading for students and scholars seeking to understand the intricacies of conditional statements and their implications for broader philosophical issues.

Product Details:

• ISBN: 0631224254
• EAN: 9780631224259
• Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell
• Binding: Paperback
• Copyright Date: 2001
• Pub Date: January 17, 2001
• Physical Info: 1.42 cms H x 21.64 cms L x 16.05 cms W (0.35 kgs), 176 pages