Abstract

This chapter discusses changes Newton made to his theory of bodies in the period following De gravitatione and situates my interpretation with respect to other recent interpretations. The chapter begins by characterizing the relationship between the metaphysics of Newton’s theory of bodies and his natural philosophy. The central suggestion is that the powers constituting bodies give rise to the forces studied in natural philosophy. The chapter argues that, following the period of De gravitatione, Newton came to believe there must be additional powers constituting bodies which account for gravitation, cohesion, and various chymical phenomena. Other authors have recently argued that laws of nature are central to Newton’s understanding of bodies. The chapter considers and rejects these proposals on the grounds that Newton understood powers as being metaphysically and explanatorily prior to laws. Finally, the chapter considers Newton’s understanding of mass in connection with his theory of bodies.