An Introduction to Ontology

In this engaging and wide-ranging new book, Nikk Effingham provides an introduction to contemporary ontology – the study of what exists – and its importance for philosophy today.<br /> <br /> He covers the key topics in the field, from the ontology of holes, numbers and possible worlds, to space, time and the ontology of material objects – for instance, whether there are composite objects such as tables, chairs or even you and me. While starting from the basics, every chapter is up-to-date with the most recent developments in the field, introducing both longstanding theories and cutting-edge advances. As well as discussing the latest issues in ontology, Effingham also helpfully deals in-depth with different methodological principles (including theory choice, Quinean ontological commitment and Meinongianism) and introduces them alongside an example ontological theory that puts them into practice.<br /> <br /> This accessible and comprehensive introduction will be essential reading for upper-level undergraduate and post-graduate students, as well as any reader interested in the present state of the subject.