Questions about a Question in Ockham

Abstract

In this paper I shall be dealing with one single question, Question 16, in the first of Ockham’s Quodlibetal Questions.In an attempt to understand what the author wants to say I shall use some symbolic language and a machinery developed to be used in this kind of analysis (see Holmström-Hintikka 1991). This is a powerful method in particular when it comes to the interpretation of texts on acts and actions, choice, desire, freedom and will. Nevertheless, I hope not only to demonstrate the use of this method but more importantly to shed some new light on old problems or at least as in this paper to raise questions about the intended meaning in Ockham’s questions and answers. As Question 16 deals with ‘will’ and ‘cause’, I shall in particular be examining these two concepts. In doing so I will recognize the Aristotelian tradition in which Ockham is operating but like himself I shall not be bound thereof.