ABSTRACT
The very word ‘metaphysics’ is full of controversy; the emotions it excites vary in character, but are seldom anything but strong. There was a time when metaphysics was thought to be the highest form of knowledge, the most fundamental and comprehensive of all the branches of study to which human beings could devote themselves. For metaphysics was, its exponents said, a uniquely self-critical science; it was the only form of intellectual activity which left nothing unquestioned and proceeded entirely without assumptions. But whatever enthusiasm metaphysics may have aroused in its devotees it must be allowed that the reaction against it has been at least as violent, so violent indeed as to suggest that the issues involved in the controversy must be something more than academic. The prestige of metaphysics did not depend solely on the bold claims made on its behalf : it owed much also to the actual achievements of those who were described as metaphysicians.
