Full Idea
A thing's active function is its end.
Gist of Idea
A thing's active function is its end
Source
Aristotle (Metaphysics [c.324 BCE], 1050a16)
Book Reference
Aristotle: 'Metaphysics', ed/tr. Lawson-Tancred,Hugh [Penguin 1998], p.274
A Reaction
This sort of remark is the basis of modern teleological functionalism about the mind. I think that is misguided. Don't define things by their function. They have functions because of intrinsic character.
Related Idea
Idea 5873 Each thing's function is its end [Aristotle]