03 Jun

Research Seminar in Decision and Action Theory: Modeling instability: From ecological collapse to political transitions

Date:

Wed:
10:00 am - 12:00 pm

3 June 2026

Location:

Ludwigstr. 31 Ground floor, room 021 80539 München

Abstract

Metaphysically emergent properties are defined by their autonomy, placing them ‘over and above’ their subvenient bases. While orthodox frameworks equate this autonomy with novel causal efficacy, this paper explores an alternative, non-causal account: an emergent property is autonomous by virtue of its capacity to ground, rather than its causal novelty. It thus uncovers a neglected metaphysical possibility that emergent properties can be simultaneously epiphenomenal and autonomous. The aim is to put this non-causal account of autonomy on the table, by demonstrating that this framework is well-motivated, conceptually intelligible, and coherent with physicalism.

Speakers

Dawei Wu (LMU)

Please note

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Patricia Palacios (Salzburg) has had to postpone her seminar this Wednesday (it will take place next semester).

The seminar will take place from 10 to 12 s.t. (please note the start at 10:00) in the MCMP’s larger seminar room (Ludwigstr. 31 / 021).

As usual, the seminar will be held in person, but here is a Zoom link for remote participation: https://lmu-munich.zoom.us/j/93279453658?pwd=MGRkZ1lOYTVtK2tleWVHbFZ4UFNzZz09