Abstract

Shortly after the publication of Simplicius’ commentary on Physics 5, the English translation of book 2 came off the press. The second book of the Physics is of central importance for the understanding of Aristotle’s thought. It considers nature and the distinction between the sciences and proposes the well-known theory of the four genera of causes, while it establishes the presence of finality in all natural processes. Simplicius’ commentary on this book is particularly important because it provides detailed information on several Pre-Socratic philosophers and brings out the implications of Aristotle’s doctrine. In his introduction, Fleet observes that despite the general opposition of the Platonists to Aristotle’s position on how to study and to evaluate the material world, the commentary of Simplicius avoids this controversy. Only in a few places does the reader notice Simplicius’ own adherence to Platonism and the influence of Plotinus.