Alexander of Aphrodisias: On Aristotle Metaphysics 2&3 (Ancient Commentators on Aristotle)

Metaphysics 2 consists of two chapters on methodology flanking an important discussion of the impossibility of infinite causal chains The subject is vital for scientific method and for theological belief in a first cause and in a beginning of the universe In Metaphysics 3 Aristotle sets out what he sees as the central problems of metaphysics Alexander s commentary was subsequently used by the Neoplatonists two of whom have left their own commentaries so that Alexander s Aristotelian interpretation can be compared with its rivals Aristotle s Metaphysics 2 consists of two chapters on methodology flanking an important discussion of the impossibility of infinite causal chains The subject is vital for scientific method and for theological belief in a first cause and in a beginning of the universe Philoponus later attacked Aristotle on this last point but Alexander presents Aristotle s view in a most favourable light In Metaphysics 3 Aristotle sets out what he sees as the central problems of metaphysics Alexander s commentary was subsequently used by the Neoplatonists two of whom have left their own commentaries so that Alexander s Aristotelian interpretation can be compared with its rivals