Single Idea 12490

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / C. Powers and Dispositions / 1. Powers]

Full Idea

Power is twofold, as able to make, or able to receive any change. The one we may call 'active', and the other 'passive' power. ..And power includes in it some kind of relation (a relation to action or change).

Gist of Idea

Power is active or passive, and has a relation to actions

Source

John Locke (Essay Conc Human Understanding (2nd Ed) [1694], 2.21.02)

Book Reference

Locke,John: 'Essay Concerning Human Understanding', ed/tr. Nidditch,P.H. [OUP 1979], p.234


A Reaction

How deep does the distinction between active and passive power go? Are they unified at some bottom level of description?