Synopsis
In Modern Science and Materialism, Hugh Elliot argues that life operates under the same physical laws as matter in motion.
The book surveys a long debate about whether living beings are controlled by purely physico-chemical processes or by some non-material “vital force.” It traces how science moved from supernatural explanations to mechanism, and why the idea of a guiding spirit is rejected by modern physics and biology.
Two short sections frame the issue: first, a look at how materialist science has explained energy, matter, and the nervous system; and second, a critical examination of vitalism and spiritualist ideas. The author shows how energy balance, conservation laws, and atomic interactions undercut the notion of a non-material life force, while clarifying what a true mechanism would require.- Understand the shift from spiritual explanations to mechanistic science in physiology and biology.
- See why the concept of a vital force clashes with energy and matter conservation.
- Learn how nervous system activity fits a physico-chemical view of mind and behavior.
- Explore why beliefs about the soul and spirit are treated as metaphysical ideas, not scientific facts.
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Modern Science and Materialism (Classic Reprint)
Print on DemandSeller: Forgotten Books, London, United Kingdom
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Paperback. Condition: New. Print on Demand. This book explores the convergence of science and philosophy, notably the relationship between humanity and existence. The author begins by explaining how science has shown us the vastness and complexity of the universe. Based on scientific evidence to date, the book presents the idea that the Universe appears to be a flattened sphere with a ring around it, a ring which is in the same plane as our Stellar System. This book brings together a vast amount of scientific research and marries it with philosophical positions. It presents a coherent argument for the importance of science within a philosophical framework. The author posits that science and philosophy are not two rival doctrines but are one and the same doctrine, looked at from different aspects and stated in different words. The book is accessible to anyone interested in how science and philosophy intersect and is a valuable read for laypeople and scholars alike. This book is a reproduction of an important historical work, digitally reconstructed using state-of-the-art technology to preserve the original format. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in the book. print-on-demand item. Seller Inventory # 9781330141649_0
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Modern Science and Materialism (Classic Reprint)
Seller: PBShop.store US, Wood Dale, IL, U.S.A.
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PAP. Condition: New. New Book. Shipped from UK. Established seller since 2000. Seller Inventory # LW-9781330141649
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Modern Science and Materialism (Classic Reprint)
Seller: PBShop.store UK, Fairford, GLOS, United Kingdom
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PAP. Condition: New. New Book. Shipped from UK. Established seller since 2000. Seller Inventory # LW-9781330141649
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