Full Idea
The nature of a thing is a certain principle and cause of change and stability in the thing.
Gist of Idea
A thing's nature is what causes its changes and stability
Source
Aristotle (Physics [c.337 BCE], 192b20)
Book Reference
Aristotle: 'Physics', ed/tr. Waterfield,Robin [OUP 1996], p.33
A Reaction
A helpful contribution to the discussion, as most thinkers just boggle when asked to specify the core of something's identity. Aristotle's proposal links identity to causation, which is very appealing to a physical account of all of reality. Cf 5086.
Related Idea
Idea 5086 The nature of a thing is its end and purpose [Aristotle]