Lockean superaddition and Lockean humility. (June 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Connolly, Patrick J.
• Is Part Of: Studies in history and philosophy of science. Volume 51(2015)
• Page Start: 53
• Page End: 61
• Publication Date: 2015-06
• Subjects: Locke -- Superaddition -- Gravity -- Thinking matter -- Epistemic humility -- Essences; Science -- History -- Periodicals; Science -- Philosophy -- Periodicals; 509
• DOI: 10.1016/j.shpsa.2015.03.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0039-3681

Abstract

Abstract: This paper offers a new approach to an old debate about superaddition in Locke. Did Locke claim that some objects have powers that are unrelated to their natures or real essences? The question has split commentators. Some (Wilson, Stuart, Langton) claim the answer is yes and others (Ayers, Downing, Ott) claim the answer is no. This paper argues that both of these positions may be mistaken. I show that Locke embraced a robust epistemic humility. This epistemic humility includes ignorance of the real essences of bodies, of the causal processes underlying the production of natural phenomena, and of God's method of creation. I show how this epistemic humility offers strong support for an agnostic response to the question of superaddition. Locke did not intend to claim that bodies either do or do not have properties unrelated to their real essences. Instead, his primary goal in discussing the topic was to emphasize the strict limits to human knowledge. Highlights: Locke's characteristic epistemic humility is analyzed in detail. This analysis motivates a new approach to the debate over superadded powers. Locke's epistemology supports agnosticism regarding the nature of superaddition. Alternative formulations of the debate over superaddition are considered.