Metaphysics: the Key Concepts

‘Informative, accessible, and fun to read― this is an excellent reference guide for undergraduates and anyone wanting an introduction to the fundamental issues of metaphysics. I know of no other resource like it.’– Meghan Griffith, Davidson College, USA

'Marvellous! This book provides the very best place to start for students wanting to take the first step into understanding metaphysics.Undergraduates would do well to buy it and consult it regularly. The quality and clarity of the material are consistently high.' – Chris Daly, University of Manchester, UK

Ever wondered about Gunk, Brains in a Vat or Frankfurt’s Nefarious Neurosurgeon?

With complete explanations of these terms and more, Metaphysics: The Key Concepts is an accessible and engaging introduction to the most widely studied and challenging concepts in metaphysics. The authors clearly and lucidly define and discuss key terms and concepts, under the themes of:

• time
• particulars & universals
• realism & antirealism
• free will
• personal identity
• causation and laws.

Arranged in an easy to use A-Z format, each concept is explored and illustrated with engaging and memorable examples, and accompanied by an up-to-date guide to further reading. Fully cross-referenced throughout, this remarkable reference guide is essential reading for students of philosophy and all those interested in the nature of reality.

Helen Beebee is a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Birmingham. She is the author of Hume on Causation, published by Routledge.

Nikk Effingham is a Lecturer in Philosophy at University of Birmingham.

Philip Goff is currently Research Fellow with the AHRC project ‘Phenomenal Qualitites’ at the University of Hertfordshire.