Single Idea 15115

[catalogued under 14. Science / A. Basis of Science / 2. Demonstration]

Full Idea

In a proper demonstrative argument, the middle term must be explanatory of the conclusion, in a very specific sense: the middle term must state what properly belongs to the definition of the kind of phenomenon in question.

Clarification

The 'middle term' is the transitional term in a syllogism

Gist of Idea

In a demonstration the middle term explains, by being part of the definition

Source

Kathrin Koslicki (Essence, Necessity and Explanation [2012], 13.3.1)

Book Reference

'Contemporary Aristotelian Metaphysics', ed/tr. Tahko,Tuomas [CUP 2012], p.199


A Reaction

So 'All men are mortal, S is a man, so S is mortal'. The middle term is 'man', which gives a generic explanation for why S is mortal. Explanation as categorisation? I don't think this is the whole story of Aristotelian explanation.