The problem of the character of gravitation is approached by discussing three main possible modes of action from the historical, theoretical and empirical standpoints. The “Newtonian” mode of action-at-a-distance (AAAD)—in which Newton himself did not believe—is followed through three centuries, though the aim is not historical accuracy. This approach includes several Webertype theories of velo...

In this paper I ague against John Henry's claim that Newton embraced unmediated action at a distance as an explanation of gravity (Henry, 1994, 1999, 2011, 2014). In particular, I take issue with his apparent suggestion that the fact, as he sees it, that two of Newton's prominent followers, namely, Richard Bentley and Samuel Clarke, embraced unmediated action at a distance as an explanation of ...