Single Idea 19426

[catalogued under 2. Reason / D. Definition / 1. Definitions]

Full Idea

A 'nominal' definition is nothing more than an enumeration of the sufficient distinguishing characteristics.

Gist of Idea

'Nominal' definitions just list distinguishing characteristics

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (Reflections on Knowledge, Truth and Ideas [1684], p.284)

Book Reference

Leibniz,Gottfried: 'Leibniz Selections', ed/tr. Wiener,Philip P. [Scribners 1951], p.284


A Reaction

Not wholly clear. Are these actual distinguishing characteristics, or potential ones? Could DNA be part of a human's nominal definition (for an unidentified corpse, perhaps).