Single Idea 11383

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

Full Idea

A definition is of the universal [tou katholou] and the form [tou eidous, kind, species].

Gist of Idea

A definition is of the universal and of the kind

Source

Aristotle (Metaphysics [c.324 BCE], 1036a28)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Metaphysics', ed/tr. Lawson-Tancred,Hugh [Penguin 1998], p.207


A Reaction

[Alternative translations by Vasilis Politis] Since the essence of a thing is a particular (Idea 11382), this seems to mean that the definition is NOT giving the essence, contrary to the account of Kit Fine. I take the essence to be explanatory.

Related Idea

Idea 11382 Aristotle takes essence and form as a particular, not (as some claim) as a universal, the species [Aristotle, by Politis]