Single Idea 1706

[catalogued under 7. Existence / A. Nature of Existence / 3. Being / e. Being and nothing]

Full Idea

It is not true to say that what is not, since it is thought about, is something that is; for what is thought about it is not that it is, but that it is not.

Gist of Idea

Non-existent things aren't made to exist by thought, because their non-existence is part of the thought

Source

Aristotle (On Interpretation [c.330 BCE], 21a31)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Categories and De Interpretatione', ed/tr. Ackrill,J.R. [OUP 1963], p.59


A Reaction

At least there has been one philosopher who was quite clear about the distinction between a thought and what the thought is about (its content). Often forgotten!