Single Idea 16740

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / C. Powers and Dispositions / 3. Powers as Derived]

Full Idea

A power is not the cause of an operation, but only the cause's aptitude for operating.

Gist of Idea

A power is not a cause, but an aptitude for a cause

Source

Jacob Zabarella (De rebus naturalibus [1590], De fac anim 4:col 692), quoted by Robert Pasnau - Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671 23.5

Book Reference

Pasnau,Robert: 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' [OUP 2011], p.538


A Reaction

His example is the power of running, which is actually caused by the soul (or whatever), which generates the power. A power is a very superficial thing.