Metaphysical Foundations of Natural Science

Methodology and Conclusions

In «Metaphysical Foundations of Natural Science», Immanuel Kant employs a methodology based on critical analysis and synthesis of metaphysical principles underlying natural science. He aims to establish a priori principles that make scientific knowledge of nature possible. Kant divides his work into four main parts: metaphysical foundations of physics, dynamics, mechanics, and phenomenology. In each of these parts, he examines the fundamental concepts and laws that must be a priori true for physics to be a science. Kant concludes that certain a priori principles, such as the law of conservation of matter and the principle of causality, are necessary for scientific knowledge of nature. These principles cannot be derived from experience but are necessary conditions for the possibility of experience and scientific knowledge itself.