Ted Sider - "Is Metaphysics About the Real World?" (Part 1)

A presentation by Dr. Theodore Sider given at the California State University, Chico campus on 10/22/2010. Ted Sider was invited as a part of the Phi Sigma Tau "Fall Philosophy Colloquium" speaker series. His talk explores the relationship between work in metaphysics and the real world.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Ted Sider
• metaphysics
• philosophy
• Chico State

[rumpranger65]

@ChorGodOfChunder What is bad about metaphysics? Or is it just contemporary metaphysics which you have a problem with while there is some other more archaic form which you approve of?

[VSOQQ]

Well, if we start with the distinction of observer-relative and observer-independent classes of facts, metaphysics is fundamental to try to grasp the former with the (cognitive) equipment we happen to have. Denying this is assuming an egocentric worldview, with is peculiar of most scientific disciplines.

[ChorGodOfChunder]

Sider is a cool guy, and a talented philosopher in his own right. But this kind of philosophy is just so bad. Contemporary metaphysics is a joke. People need to start doing something else, for the sake of god.

[arnoldlayne1991]

@mohamedbongfish incorrect.

[mohamedbongfish]

the answer to this question is actually nooooooooooo

[bahramf]

@Leivinn20 I'm not sure what you mean by that, but there was no supernatural influence on my answer. 

[Leivinn20]

@bahramf : Is your answer a result from natural laws or not?.

[bahramf]

@Leivinn20 I conclude the contrary.

I'm certainly not an occasionalist. I think your position is wholly untenable.

[bahramf]

@Leivinn20 No, that's not true.

[Leivinn20]

Keep in mind, the assumptions are needed because nobody know everything, the good assumptions provide a excellent base for personality and scientific process.