Introduction
In Metaphysics Z 8 Aristotle offers an infinite regress argument to deny that forms come to be. Briefly put, the argument states that if we assume that every time an x composed of matter (m1) and form (f1) comes to be, f1 also comes to be, there would be infinitely many xs coming to be – for f1 would itself be a compound, if it comes to be, and the same reasoning would in turn apply to it. This argument has great significance in the history of philosophy, for some later thinkers take Aristotle to allow or make room for the creation ex nihilo of forms.
As Sorabji (1983, p. 245) explains, an infinite regress argument is traditionally taken to argue against the beginning of the universe by explaining it without recourse to theological considerations. The argument is often based on the principle that nothing comes out of nothing, or nothing comes to be from what in no way and manner is. For this reason, an infinite regress argument is a major philosophical tool to deny creati...
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