Kantian architectonics and Newtonian gravitation

Abstract

In this article, we propose a reconstruction of Kant's interpretation of Newton's theory of universal gravitation, in particular, its metaphysical and methodological aspects, beginning by the analysis of §38 from the Prolegomena to any future metaphysics. The intention is to show that the interpretation of Newtonian theory in this passage rests completely on the program of a "metaphysics of nature" that Kant propose in Metaphysical principles of the science of nature as a necessary condition of an authentic science of nature. As to this program, the challenge will be to show that its sustainability requires a kind of particular unity that allows to put together the heterogeneous transcendental principles of formaliter and materialiter spectata nature, that is, it is required a model of architectonic unity, whose real possibility is exhibited in the complex and well succeeded articulation of principles from various sources that Newton worked in this theory of universal gravitation.