Causal Powers and the Intentionality Continuum

William A. Bauer is Associate Teaching Professor in the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies at North Carolina State University. He has published articles in journals including Acta Analytica, Erkenntnis, and Science and Engineering Ethics.

• Introduction: the metaphysics of powers and the 3d account; Part I. Why Powers?: 1. The need for powers: three models of physical modality; 2. The reality of pure powers; Part II. What Are Powers Like?: 3. Powers from the inside: physical intentionality; 4. A defense of physical intentionality: essential marks; 5. A defense of physical intentionality: additional marks and objections; 6. Powers from the inside: information; 7. Powers from the outside: systems of powers and the appearance of qualities; 8. Nature's intentionality continuum.

'Bauer's monograph marks a significant and original contribution to the rapidly expanding literature on dispositionalism. Well-informed, clearly written, and composed with an eye to interdisciplinary linkages (for instance to information theory and philosophy of religion), this work deserves a wide audience across multiple philosophical sub-disciplines.' Travis Dumsday, Concordia University