Aristotle

Paper topic I
In the first two books of the Physics, Aristotle argues against philosophers who believe that
causes and explanations of events and objects ultimately lead to the matter all substances are
composed of. Instead, Aristotle argues for an expanded view of causation that includes not only
material causes, but also formal and final causes. Why does Aristotle think material causes are
inadequate for providing explanations, and how does he think formal and final causes do a better
job? Present Aristotle view, and provide one argument against it and in favor of material causes.
Paper topic II
In the second book of the Physics, Aristotle entertains – and rejects – the hypothesis that the
parts of plants and animals (for example, human teeth), are the product of necessity and do not
exist for the sake of some natural final cause (contained in the animal’s form). What are
Aristotle’s reasons for rejecting the view, and what is a possible reply to Aristotle?
Paper topic III
In Physics VIII, Aristotle examines – and rejects – an argument in favor of the view that the
universe and its motion had a beginning. Present Aristotle’s argument and offer a response to it.
How does Aristotle’s claim that the universe is eternal connect with his notion of the unmoved
mover?

Sample Solution