Metaphysics is frequently dismissed as an illusory or outdated field of enquiry compared with the realities of the “positive” or natural sicences, but metaphysical experience remains as an observable phenomenon despite attempts to dismiss it. In this book Monsignor Jolivet examines the grounds for the charge that what Aristotle called “the science of being” is an illusion and discusses in detail the case for metaphysics as a sicence - “an undertaking essentially rational and critical since it is deeper meaning”. After describing the criticisms of thinkers hostile to metaphysics he discusses themeaning and scope of the metaphysical phenomenon together with the question. “Is there an Absulute?” A chapter devoted to metaphysical systems – which includes a discussion of metaphysics and poetry – is followed by an examination of exactly what is involved in the assertion that metaphysics is a science and discusses it in relation to epistemology and psychology, freedom, value, existence, language and thought, the problem of God and the validity of the concept of the natural law.