Single Idea 11197

[catalogued under 2. Reason / D. Definition / 5. Genus and Differentia]

Full Idea

What sorts things into their proper genus and species are the definitions that express what they are.

Gist of Idea

The definitions expressing identity are used to sort things

Source

Thomas Aquinas (De Ente et Essentia (Being and Essence) [1267], p.92)

Book Reference

Aquinas,Thomas: 'Selected Philosophical Writings', ed/tr. McDermott,Timothy [OUP 1993], p.92


A Reaction

This is straight from Aristotle, though Aristotle's view is a little more complex, I think. If the definitions 'express what they are', then definitions seem to specify the essence.