Single Idea 16571

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 6. Early Matter Theories / b. Prime matter]

Full Idea

Nothing in the natural world seems to be more obscure and difficult to grasp than the prime matter of things.

Gist of Idea

Prime matter is exceptionally obscure

Source

Jacob Zabarella (De rebus naturalibus [1590], I.1 col 133), quoted by Robert Pasnau - Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671 2.1

Book Reference

Pasnau,Robert: 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' [OUP 2011], p.17


A Reaction

This spells the beginning of the end for 'prime matter', since a late scholastic is doubting it, even before the scientists got to work. Most modern Aristotelians slide quietly past prime matter, as unhelpful.