Full Idea
As Locke clearly understood, one must first have a clear conception of what kind of object one is dealing with in order to extract a criterion of identity for objects of that kind from that conception.
Gist of Idea
A clear idea of the kind of an object must precede a criterion of identity for it
Source
E.J. Lowe (The Possibility of Metaphysics [1998], 10.3)
Book Reference
Lowe,E.J.: 'The Possibility of Metaphysics' [OUP 2001], p.215
A Reaction
Archaeologist face objects which they can number, remember and take pride in, without having a clue what kind of thing they are dealing with. The two processes may not be entirely distinct.