bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Introduction
Authors: Leftow Brian 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
The Introduction presents the claims that God exists necessarily and that a perfect being exists necessarily. It provides a short history of what has motivated those claims, and also provides reasons to motivate current interest in them. It introduces the kind of necessity which Anselm had in mind in making these claims. It explicates it in two ways, one of which involves the idea of a possible world. It also provides a road-map for the rest of the book.
The Metaphysics
Authors: Leftow Brian 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Chapter 1 sets out Anselm’s modal metaphysics. It discusses the way he bases necessity on compulsion or prevention, and possibility on power. It shows the role the distinction between powers had intrinsically and powers had extrinsically plays in Anselm’s views. It shows how the distinction between “primed” powers and others factors in. It shows that his metaphysics delivers the modal logic S4. It introduces his distinction between “proper” and “improper” speech, and applies it to modal sentences.
Hume
Authors: Leftow Brian 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Chapter 6 discusses Hume’s argument that nothing could exist necessarily. That argument premises that any necessary proposition has a contradictory negation and that whatever exists can be conceived not to exist. The chapter argues that both claims are false. Counter-examples to the first come from metaphysical theories, identity-statements, color-exclusion, and cases of supervenience. The second needs disambiguating, as “conceivable” can mean “imaginable” or “cannot be known to be false a priori.” The principle turns out to be false on both readings. Finally, the chapter rejects Richard Swinburne’s recent attempt to update Hume’s argument.
Swinburne
Authors: Leftow Brian 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Chapter 8 considers further objections to divine or perfect being necessity by Richard Swinburne. One of these calls on intuitions that claims like “no-one is perfectly good” are absolutely possible. The chapter suggests that further reflection undermines these intuitions, at least in theists. Another of Swinburne’s arguments claims that God’s non-existence entails no contradiction, and so we should take it to be possible unless there are defeating arguments that suggest that it does. The chapter replies that non-contradiction does not suffice for genuine possibility, per earlier arguments, and that Swinburne’s attempts to clear away defeaters fail.
Imagining Nothing
Authors: Leftow Brian 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Chapter 10 argues that imagination cannot provide evidence that there could have been nothing concrete. It discusses both ordinary sensory imagination and a sort of imagination open only to those who have had mystical experience. It first describes sensory imagination, then talks about the degrees of support it might provide for possibility claims. It then argues that sensory imagination provides none of these degrees of support. One main conclusion is that we cannot really imagine there being nothing concrete. Instead, we actually operate by convention. We accept certain other things we can imagine as counting as imagining this, when they actually do not manage it. Because visual imagination often visualizes objects against a sort of backdrop, the chapter discusses the concreteness of space(time), as the backdrop might represent empty space(time). The chapter argues that a substantival space(time) would probably count as concrete. Finally, it contends that mystical experience could not add anything that helps to our imaginative resources, and considers the relevance of sensory models to there being nothing concrete.
Thinking of Nothing
Authors: Leftow Brian 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Chapter 11 considers four candidate sources of evidence for the claim that 1. There could have been nothing concrete. One tactic in assessing possibility claims is to see whether any relevant necessity rules them out. Ruling that out, in (1)’s case, would require an independent argument that (1). So this tactic cannot add to the reasons that (1) which that argument would give us. Another move rests on asserting unrestricted recombination of states of affairs, or of existential states of affairs—i.e. that in either range, if state of affairs S1 is possible, and so is S2, then the state of affairs S1 and S2 is possible. Both principles turn out false. Another move rests on the principle that if a state of affairs S2 is enough like a state of affairs S1 in the right ways, then the more confident we are that S1 is possible, and the more like S1 in those ways S2 is, the more confident we should be that S2 is possible, ceteris paribus. The chapter argues that subtraction arguments cannot incline us more toward (1). Conceiving (1) involves understanding its consequences. The chapter argues that conceiving is at best a wash as evidence for (1), and might actually tilt against it. For it can involve tracing the consequences of (1) for the ontology of modality, and these (it suggests) motivate rejecting (1). Finally, the chapter suggests that modal intuition too is at best a wash for (1), and broader intuitive considerations weigh against it.
Five More Objections
Authors: Leftow Brian 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Chapter 12 considers five more objections to the claim that a perfect being would exist necessarily. One is Findlay’s classic argument that nothing could be both God and necessary, due to the implications of a certain sort of conventionalism. The chapter shows that this argument generalizes into one not so obviously indebted to that view. But even that version of it fails. Another pair suggest that a concrete necessary being would be a modal anomaly, and that this counts against such a thing being possible. The chapter suggests that the anomaly can be mitigated. Finally, the chapter considers a challenge from the possibility of evil a perfect being would not permit. It suggests denying the possibility, and suggests why that move might be more attractive than it seems at first.
Perfect Being Contingency?
Authors: Leftow Brian 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Chapter 13 begins a four-chapter argument against the claim that a perfect being would exist contingently. Were that true, there would be a possible world with no perfect being. The chapter argues that in at least some such worlds, a perfect being would be possible. It then begins the longer argument, which is that there is no acceptable ontological account of what would make it possible in such a world. This chapter considers ways to use concreta in that world to provide a perfect being’s possibility—conventionalism, conceptualism, “powers” theories, and other strategies. It contends that these all “cost” too much. It also argues that a perfect being would have aseity as an essential property. It points out various ways to understand that attribute, and shows how they rule out ways to account for a perfect being’s possibility.
Essence Options
Authors: Leftow Brian 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Chapter 14 continues the exploration of consequences of the claim that a perfect being exists contingently. It considers ways a perfect being’s essence might provide its possibility in worlds in which it does not exist. It argues that this essence would exist necessarily. It then argues that if a perfect being exists contingently, its essence is a more fundamental reality than it is. For one thing, if its essence is necessary and the perfect being contingent, the essence can exist without the perfect being. But the perfect being cannot exist without its essence. Further, the essence must help explain the perfect being’s existing, but the perfect being (it turns out) cannot explain its. On most views, the essence would also explain much else about the perfect being, but not vice versa. The chapter argues this inter alia by considering ways to understand the exemplification relation between the two. It also rejects various ways for there to be mutual explanation between the two, and discusses an analogue of the Euthyphro dilemma. Nothing should be more basic in reality than a perfect being. In particular, if a perfect being would exist a se, nothing more basic should be contributing to its existence. So, whatever may be true of other essences, a perfect being’s essence cannot be necessary if the perfect being is contingent. But if there is such a thing as its essence, the chapter argues, it exists necessarily. So the perfect being does too.
Introduction: the ‘Problematic’ of Custom in the Natural Law and ius gentium Tradition
Authors: Iurlaro Francesca 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Customary international law emerged as a fundamental legal category capable of transitioning the naturalness of reason into the historicity of a specific political and cultural context. The emphasis on the normative aspects of custom allows the problematizing of the idea of ‘state practice’, which is traditionally associated with custom. This introduction will suggest that the very notion of ‘state practice’ (i.e. the idea of inferring the existence of binding customary rules from generalized patterns of behaviour) was relatively undertheorized until the late 17th century. To prove this, the introduction seeks to retrace a narrative of custom as a process of historicization of natural law, focusing on a selection of authors who have navigated the dichotomy between natural law and history. These European authors of the ius gentium tradition ‘invented’ the customary law of nations through the language of history and myth-making, internalized its cultural values, and, eventually, abandoned such values.
The Problematic of Custom in Roman and Canon Law
Authors: Iurlaro Francesca 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
This chapter offers an overview of the concept of custom in the Roman and canon law tradition to introduce some problematic aspects in the theorization of custom. While this chapter has no pretensions of exhaustiveness, as an accurate analysis of the Roman and medieval account of custom would inevitably fall outside the scope of this book, it mainly aims to set the stage for the early modern reprisal of the concept. Two aspects appear crucial for this reprisal: custom’s ability to navigate the dynamic between universal principles and the necessities of local communities; and second, custom’s controversial relationship with ius gentium.
‘Like Beginners in Arabic’. Custom and Reason in Francisco de Vitoria’s Doctrine of ius gentium
Authors: Iurlaro Francesca 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
This chapter focuses on Francisco de Vitoria’s account of ius gentium as customary. According to the Spanish theologian, ius gentium can be, to a certain extent, considered consensual, in that it refers to a universal consensus based on human reason and natural law, to which even the ignorant and non-Christians are subject. However, relying on this doctrine of universal consensus might not be enough, Vitoria says, in cases in which ius gentium cannot be derived from natural law. In such cases, ius gentium seems to share a resemblance with custom. Vitoria (as well as Domingo de Soto and Domingo Báñez after him) discuss the customary nature of ius gentium when discussing the treatment of prisoners of war. Against the background of debates on natural slavery, they start to justify the enslavement of non-Christian prisoners of war as a custom under the law of nations.
Obligation through Agreement, Agreement on Obligation
Authors: Iurlaro Francesca 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Francisco Suárez argues that ius gentium differs from civil law precisely because it is customary. While bad customs are inherently incapable of perpetuating themselves, customs oriented towards moral good present a self-legitimating quality that defines the customary nature of ius gentium. The question of what moral good should be at the very heart of ius gentium is addressed by Suárez through the notion of communitas perfecta. Its teleological orientation towards divine good acts as a foundational criterion in the absence of a legislator: it is the fulfilment of the same goal (achievement of common good in compliance with divine providence) that pulls the community together. However, most importantly, ius gentium depends on the capability of human beings to agree with each other. Indeed, it is his theory of obligation that provides Suárez with a criterion for the identification of human customs, which would otherwise be mere repetitions of similar acts, but with no legal value.
A Turn Inward: the Europeanization of Customary ius gentium
Authors: Iurlaro Francesca 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
From the late 17th century, the progressive loss of the imaginative potential of classical antiquity generated the anxiety that custom was ineffective – that a given custom was based on an example from Roman history was no sufficient reason to expect its future observance from other sovereigns. As the present gained prominence over the past and its stories, natural law principles were constantly negotiated with contemporary practices. This is when custom emerged as an independent source of the law of nations, together with treaties. Not only were collections of treaties useful repositories to identify emerging customs, based on the interests and inclinations of the sovereigns that concluded them, but the language itself of treaty-making became a powerful means to think about customs as if they were treaties and, thus, to consider customary rules as effectively binding as treaties.
Vattel’s Doctrine of the Customary Law of Nations
Authors: Iurlaro Francesca 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
This chapter focuses on Emer de Vattel’s analysis of customary ius gentium. Relying and expanding on Wolffian philosophy, Emer de Vattel clarifies the relationship between natural law and positive law, by insisting on the fact that, as a source of law, custom is both compliant with natural law and effective as positive law. Furthermore, another important element is Vattel’s insistence on the added value that nations annex to custom, which would otherwise be nothing but a mere usus, carrying no legal meaning or obliging force whatsoever. On the contrary, Vattel manages to bind the persuasive force of custom into compliance with natural law and, ultimately, with the pursuit of self-interest. Finally, Vattel’s concept of custom calls into question the idea of an international legal order where normative principles coexist with practical considerations of expediency.
“Hold on for the Next Supply”
Authors: Wicks Robert J. 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
One of the greatest gifts people can enjoy and share with others is a sense of one’s own inner peace, but people can’t share what they don’t have. This book offers a succinct list of essential elements for effectively mentoring oneself—especially during difficult times. They are designed to help shape the right attitude (clarity balanced with kindness) toward improving self-exploration and enhancing personal understanding. Following this, 50 brief lessons and illustrative stories are offered with the belief that it is not the amount of darkness in the world or people that is crucial; it is how people stand in that darkness (having a healthy perspective) that makes all the difference. The main topics include unlearning, preventing loss of emotional energy, self-forgiveness, toxic compassion, detachment, posttraumatic growth, the four types of friends needed in a strong interpersonal network, and inhabiting and modeling unpopular strengths. Underlying the contents and philosophy of the book is that vulnerability cannot, and should not, be ignored, avoided, or escaped. Instead, it needs to be psychologically inhabited with a spirit of humility because when one takes knowledge and adds humility, one gets wisdom. And, when one takes this very wisdom and adds it to compassion—including self-compassion—one gets the love that is at the heart of a rich and caring life.
Five Simple Steps to Prevent Loss of Emotional Energy
Authors: Wicks Robert J. 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
One of the greatest gifts people can enjoy and share with others is a sense of one’s own inner peace, but people can’t share what they don’t have. This book offers a succinct list of essential elements for effectively mentoring oneself—especially during difficult times. They are designed to help shape the right attitude (clarity balanced with kindness) toward improving self-exploration and enhancing personal understanding. Following this, 50 brief lessons and illustrative stories are offered with the belief that it is not the amount of darkness in the world or people that is crucial; it is how people stand in that darkness (having a healthy perspective) that makes all the difference. The main topics include unlearning, preventing loss of emotional energy, self-forgiveness, toxic compassion, detachment, posttraumatic growth, the four types of friends needed in a strong interpersonal network, and inhabiting and modeling unpopular strengths. Underlying the contents and philosophy of the book is that vulnerability cannot, and should not, be ignored, avoided, or escaped. Instead, it needs to be psychologically inhabited with a spirit of humility because when one takes knowledge and adds humility, one gets wisdom. And, when one takes this very wisdom and adds it to compassion—including self-compassion—one gets the love that is at the heart of a rich and caring life.
Taking the Little and Big Detours in Life
Authors: Wicks Robert J. 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
One of the greatest gifts people can enjoy and share with others is a sense of one’s own inner peace, but people can’t share what they don’t have. This book offers a succinct list of essential elements for effectively mentoring oneself—especially during difficult times. They are designed to help shape the right attitude (clarity balanced with kindness) toward improving self-exploration and enhancing personal understanding. Following this, 50 brief lessons and illustrative stories are offered with the belief that it is not the amount of darkness in the world or people that is crucial; it is how people stand in that darkness (having a healthy perspective) that makes all the difference. The main topics include unlearning, preventing loss of emotional energy, self-forgiveness, toxic compassion, detachment, posttraumatic growth, the four types of friends needed in a strong interpersonal network, and inhabiting and modeling unpopular strengths. Underlying the contents and philosophy of the book is that vulnerability cannot, and should not, be ignored, avoided, or escaped. Instead, it needs to be psychologically inhabited with a spirit of humility because when one takes knowledge and adds humility, one gets wisdom. And, when one takes this very wisdom and adds it to compassion—including self-compassion—one gets the love that is at the heart of a rich and caring life.
Feeling Lost and Making Stupid Mistakes
Authors: Wicks Robert J. 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
One of the greatest gifts people can enjoy and share with others is a sense of one’s own inner peace, but people can’t share what they don’t have. This book offers a succinct list of essential elements for effectively mentoring oneself—especially during difficult times. They are designed to help shape the right attitude (clarity balanced with kindness) toward improving self-exploration and enhancing personal understanding. Following this, 50 brief lessons and illustrative stories are offered with the belief that it is not the amount of darkness in the world or people that is crucial; it is how people stand in that darkness (having a healthy perspective) that makes all the difference. The main topics include unlearning, preventing loss of emotional energy, self-forgiveness, toxic compassion, detachment, posttraumatic growth, the four types of friends needed in a strong interpersonal network, and inhabiting and modeling unpopular strengths. Underlying the contents and philosophy of the book is that vulnerability cannot, and should not, be ignored, avoided, or escaped. Instead, it needs to be psychologically inhabited with a spirit of humility because when one takes knowledge and adds humility, one gets wisdom. And, when one takes this very wisdom and adds it to compassion—including self-compassion—one gets the love that is at the heart of a rich and caring life.
Pacing and Timing
Authors: Wicks Robert J. 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
One of the greatest gifts people can enjoy and share with others is a sense of one’s own inner peace, but people can’t share what they don’t have. This book offers a succinct list of essential elements for effectively mentoring oneself—especially during difficult times. They are designed to help shape the right attitude (clarity balanced with kindness) toward improving self-exploration and enhancing personal understanding. Following this, 50 brief lessons and illustrative stories are offered with the belief that it is not the amount of darkness in the world or people that is crucial; it is how people stand in that darkness (having a healthy perspective) that makes all the difference. The main topics include unlearning, preventing loss of emotional energy, self-forgiveness, toxic compassion, detachment, posttraumatic growth, the four types of friends needed in a strong interpersonal network, and inhabiting and modeling unpopular strengths. Underlying the contents and philosophy of the book is that vulnerability cannot, and should not, be ignored, avoided, or escaped. Instead, it needs to be psychologically inhabited with a spirit of humility because when one takes knowledge and adds humility, one gets wisdom. And, when one takes this very wisdom and adds it to compassion—including self-compassion—one gets the love that is at the heart of a rich and caring life.
Take a Break When Necessary . . . So You Can Continue to Be Involved
Authors: Wicks Robert J. 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
One of the greatest gifts people can enjoy and share with others is a sense of one’s own inner peace, but people can’t share what they don’t have. This book offers a succinct list of essential elements for effectively mentoring oneself—especially during difficult times. They are designed to help shape the right attitude (clarity balanced with kindness) toward improving self-exploration and enhancing personal understanding. Following this, 50 brief lessons and illustrative stories are offered with the belief that it is not the amount of darkness in the world or people that is crucial; it is how people stand in that darkness (having a healthy perspective) that makes all the difference. The main topics include unlearning, preventing loss of emotional energy, self-forgiveness, toxic compassion, detachment, posttraumatic growth, the four types of friends needed in a strong interpersonal network, and inhabiting and modeling unpopular strengths. Underlying the contents and philosophy of the book is that vulnerability cannot, and should not, be ignored, avoided, or escaped. Instead, it needs to be psychologically inhabited with a spirit of humility because when one takes knowledge and adds humility, one gets wisdom. And, when one takes this very wisdom and adds it to compassion—including self-compassion—one gets the love that is at the heart of a rich and caring life.