Metafizika

The work represents the so-called first philosophy – the science that studies being as such, its most general principles and ultimate causes. Here Aristotle critically examines the opinions of his predecessors (especially Plato) and builds his own system that will shape the entire Western thought.

At the heart of Metaphysics is the question of being as being. Aristotle explores what it means for something to be, what are the most general provisions of existence and what makes something what it is in the deepest sense – substance (ousia). In doing so, he critically examines Plato's ideas and offers his own solution to the relationship between the general and the particular.

The second large part of the work deals with causality, movement and perfection. Aristotle elaborates on the relationship between matter and form and potency and act, introduces four causes and at the climax comes to the unmoved mover – the eternal, immaterial mind which is the pure act and ultimate cause of everything that exists in the universe.

Ladan's 1985 translation is considered one of the best Croatian translations of Aristotle. It is distinguished by its great philological precision, rich commentary and a seven-language interpreter of key terms. This edition remains a standard reference work for the Croatian philosophical public.

Metaphysics is a demanding, concise and profound work that remains the foundation of ontology, theology and science in the West. Indispensable for serious study of philosophy.