Can Objects Gain or Lose Parts?

Essay in metaphysics on the problem of material constitution we are to consider a particular aspect of that problem, the paradox of increase or decrease. Sources to be used: Eric Olson, The Paradox of Increase, The Monist 89 (2006): 390-417 Michael B. Burke, Preserving the Principle of One Object to a Place: A Novel Account of the Relations Among Objects, Sorts, Sortals, and Persistence Conditions, Philosophy and Phenomenological Research 54: 591-624 Peter van Inwagen, When Are Objects Parts?, Philosophical Persp ectives I: Metaphysics , (1987) Material Constitution. A Reader