How a Middle level to be fundamental

Andrew Zhou

University of Milan

Contemporary metaphysics seeks to understand the structure of reality, particularly the distinction and interaction between fundamental and non-fundamental entities. Traditionally, fundamental entities are viewed as either mereological wholes (Top-ism) or atomic parts (Bottom-ism). Sara Bernstein (2021) introduces Middleism, proposing that a middle level can be fundamental, challenging the unidirectional nature of fundamentality and grounding relations. Bernstein’s Middleism includes the possibility of bidirectional fundamentality, the ontological independence of a middle level, and the grounding of all facts by middle-level facts. This paper critiques Bernstein’s framework, arguing it is overly coarse-grained and her definition of middle entities lacks coherence.

Firstly, the paper examines Bernstein’s views—Middle Fundamentality and Middle Grounding—highlighting their absolute nature. Using modal, essential, and identity dependence analyses, it shows that middle-level entities are not absolutely fundamental due to their dependence on constituent particles. The paper proposes a minimal Middleism, positing middle-level entities as fundamental in a relative building relation.

Secondly, the paper evaluates Bernstein’s interpretations of middle entities based on physical size, category, and mereology. It argues these definitions fail to meet consistency and distinguishability criteria from top and bottom entities. A more viable account should focus on the integrity and substantive information provided by these complexes, aligning with our perceptual experiences and common sense.

In conclusion, while Bernstein’s Middleism is compelling, this paper recommends refinements. It suggests a minimal Middleism emphasizing the relative fundamentality of middle-level entities and defining them through their integrative and explanatory roles, aiming for a coherent and plausible version of Middleism in metaphysical discourse.

Chair: Annica Vieser

Time: September 11th, 17:00 – 17:30

Location: HS E.002