Power Structuralism in Ancient Ontologies Cartesian Transubstantiation
Aug 23, 2013
In this thought-provoking discussion, John Heil, Professor of Philosophy at Washington University in St Louis, tackles the perplexing concept of Cartesian Transubstantiation. He delves into the clash between Aristotelian and Cartesian metaphysics, unpacking Descartes' unique interpretation of the Eucharist. Heil critically examines how transubstantiation conflicts with Descartes' views on substance and accidents, prompting a reevaluation of traditional church doctrines. This engaging talk blends philosophy, theology, and metaphysics in a captivating exploration.
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The Puzzle Of Surviving Accidents
- The received doctrine adds that accidents survive without inhering in any substance, a puzzling metaphysical move.
- Aquinas suggests accidents inhere in dimensive quantity, a controversial gloss.
Real Accidents Look Like Tiny Substances
- 'Real accidents' are conceived as able to exist apart from substances, resembling tropes or tiny substances.
- Descartes rejects real accidents as metaphysically incoherent within his modes view.
Surface-Based Account Of Perception
- Descartes explains perception as driven by contact with a body's surface, not by accidents.
- He proposes that Christ's body takes on the bread's spatial contours so appearances remain unchanged.
