Single Idea 18399

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / C. Powers and Dispositions / 7. Against Powers]

Full Idea

If masses are powers, the forces generated between two particulars have to vary inversely with the square of their distance apart. Have not the masses got to 'know' at what distance they are from each other, to exert the right amount of force?

Gist of Idea

How does the power of gravity know the distance it acts over?

Source

David M. Armstrong (Truth and Truthmakers [2004], 10.4)

Book Reference

Armstrong,D.M.: 'Truth and Truthmakers' [CUP 2004], p.140


A Reaction

This seems like a good warning against a simplistic account of powers doing all the work, but I suspect that more sophisticated physics would offer the fan of powers a solution here. The power is to 'spread' the force around.