Metaphysics and Its Task: The Search for the Categorial Foundation of Knowledge by Jorge J. E. Gracia
Michael Gorman
BOOK REVIEWS 651 methodology to the present volume. Greer is especially adept at showing how Gregory, Augustine, Donne, and Taylor interpreted key biblical texts contribute their eschatological perspectives, as well explicating own writings. He also offers just enough historical context in each case provide reader with adequate background. The breadth of material that covers a relatively brief work results richness can be bit vexing. In several places he entices an idea mentioned course larger point. For example, his discussion time eternity Augustine's thought, makes piquant observation "time has become moral problem for him" (136)-given notion one's perception passage relates desires-and leaves chew on this thought further. Perhaps happy frustration part Greer's intention, though, entice us limited amoqnt from these great thinkers order spur more contemporary perspective. way we are drawn into engaging if ultimately ineffable endeavor eschatology. Or borrow another line Eliot, "For us, there only trying. rest not our business." Dominican House ofStudies Washington, D.C. JODY VACCARO LEWIS Metaplrysics Its Task: Search Categorial Foundation Knowledge. By JORGEJ. E. GRACIA. Albany: State University New York Press, 1999. Pp. xix + 247. $18.95 {paper). ISBN 0-7914-4214-4. Anyone familiar Jorge Gracia will come book expecting it well-organized, clearly written, judicious. They expect canvass wide range views held by ancient, medieval, modern, analytic, continental philosophers propose novel approach. will, finally, given any cheap thrills, because they know never goes exciting assertion when true one available. none disappointed. MetaplrysicsandIts Task, Gracia's main theme nature ofmetaphysics, secondary its resilience, is, ability withstand many attacks have made it. Chapter 1 sets out those two themes proper addressing them. 2 begins address first (i.e., question metaphysics) offering definition philosophy making point genus metaphysics "philosophy." Then turns really hard part, namely, completing explaining differentia metaphysics. chapters 3-6, discusses various 652 proposals been offered, grouping them according whether consider distinctive thing about object, method, aim, or types propositions deals with. Here goal clarify reject false metaphysics; within four I count twenty-three subtypes rejected theory, but since characterizing rejecting no less than fifty theories what is. Chapters 7-9 set view. chapter 7, states study attempts "(a) identify most general categories; (b) define categories all possible not, least describe ways which allow them; (c) determine relationships among (d) fit ones; (e) related aU categories, including ones do fit" (140). explains view category 8, reductionism, takes root conceptions metaphysics, 9 expands understanding with...
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