Single Idea 23701

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / C. Powers and Dispositions / 6. Dispositions / a. Dispositions]

Full Idea

A disposition is 'mimicked' by objects without that disposition which behave as though they do have it. Styrofoam plates are not fragile, but make a horrible sound when stressed, causing some annoyed person to break them.

Gist of Idea

A disposition is 'mimicked' if a different cause produces that effect from that stimulus

Source

Friend/Kimpton-Nye (Dispositions and Powers [2023], 2.2.3)

Book Reference

Friend/Kimpton-Nye: 'Dispositions and Powers' [CUP 2023], p.12


A Reaction

A rather strained example! It shouldn't be a problem if the same cause (stress) leads to the same effect (breaking), but by a different path which is not the same as fragility. A formal analysis must obviously cover this case.