Aristotle’s *Metaphysics* is a foundational text that inquires into the nature of reality, focusing on "being qua being" and its essential attributes. The book systematically investigates the principles and causes of substances, seeking to understand the fundamental nature of existence. It aims to uncover the first principles and highest causes, particularly those pertaining to divine being.
Through a rigorous examination, Aristotle presents a philosophical inquiry into the fundamental nature of reality. A detailed Index of Terms guides readers to discussions of key notions, and sequentially numbered endnotes offer essential information. The accompanying Introduction clarifies the book's scope, objectives, methodology, and intended audience.
Key concepts
- Being qua being — The study of existence in and for itself, independent of particular attributes or categories.
- First principles — The ultimate, irreducible foundations of knowledge and reality.
- Highest causes — The most fundamental explanations for why things exist and are as they are.
- Divine being — The concept of a supreme, unchanging cause or principle within the metaphysical framework.