This book investigates the apparent tension between Aristotle's reliance on dialectical methodology and his commitment to metaphysical realism. Terence Irwin, a prominent scholar of ancient philosophy, examines how Aristotle reconciles these two aspects of his thought. By analyzing the structure of Aristotelian inquiry, the author argues that Aristotle provides a robust defense of dialectic as a legitimate tool for establishing metaphysical truths, rather than merely a preliminary exercise.

Scholars and students of ancient philosophy frequently cite this work as a foundational text for understanding the logical underpinnings of Aristotelian metaphysics. Readers often note the academic density of the prose, which requires careful engagement with the author's rigorous philosophical arguments.