| This dissertation examined Spinoza's concept of the order of nature in light of Justus Buchler's meta-analytic critique of the idea of the order of nature. Four sets of defining criteria for any viable concept of the order nature were presented in Buchler's metaphysical analysis: (1) Things cannot be conceived of as existing in nature; (2) Nature is not subject to an inherent teleological principle; (3) There is no supervening order of nature or Order of Orders; and (4) Nature cannot be interpreted exclusively as either a domain or a trait orientation.;An investigation of Spinoza's concept of the order of nature sought to determine if it violated any of the four Buchlerian criteria of nature. With regard to (1), it was argued that modes express ontological and conceptual dependence on substance. Therefore, things (modes) do not exist in nature. Pertaining to (2), it was argued that the infinite mode forms the structure of nature by which it is determined in a law-guided and logically integrative manner. Thus, nature is not teleologically determined, whether regarding the finite modes, or nature taken as the totality of modal reality. With regard to (3), it was argued that nature's order is epi-phenomenal, and thus presents the comprehensive relations held between the infinite totality of modal modifications as they issue in accordance with the laws of nature inscribed in the logical structure of the infinite mode. Thus, there is no evidence of a supervening order or encompassing order of nature. And in response to (4), Spinoza's concept of the order of nature embodies both domain and trait orientations, and therefore, can be understood from one mode of interpretation that reflects both orientations, respectively, natura naturans and natura naturata. Spinoza's nature, therefore, cannot be interpreted exclusively as either a domain or trait orientation.;The conclusions drawn from the philosophical examination of Spinoza's concept of the order of nature indicate that his view of nature does not violate the Buchlerian parameters for the viability of the concept of the order of nature. |
