Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-1997

Publication Title

Philosophy of Science

First Page

605

Last Page

626

DOI

http://dx.doi.org/10.1086/392574

Abstract

In this paper I criticize Cartwright's analysis of capacities and offer an alternative analysis. I argue that Cartwright's attempt to connect capacities to her condition CC fails because individuals can exercise capacities only in certain contexts. My own analysis emphasizes three features of capacities: 1) Capacities belong to individuals; 2) Capacities are typically not metaphysically fundamental properties of individuals, but can be explained by referring to structural properties of individuals; and 3) Laws are best understood as ascriptions of capacities.

Rights

This article was archived with permission from University of Chicago Press, all rights reserved. Document also available from Philosophy of Science.

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