Single Idea 11386

[catalogued under 14. Science / A. Basis of Science / 2. Demonstration]

Full Idea

There cannot be demonstrations that this particular triangle is equal to the sum of two right angles, except that every triangle is equal to the sum of two right angles, nor that this particular man is an animal, except that every man is an animal.

Gist of Idea

Demonstrations about particulars must be about everything of that type

Source

Aristotle (Metaphysics [c.324 BCE], 1086b36)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Metaphysics', ed/tr. Lawson-Tancred,Hugh [Penguin 1998], p.427


A Reaction

Not quite the covering-law model, but well on the way. Why can't we demonstrate that this particular is different from the others? This tiger is docile; this butterfly stings. We just like generalisations because you know more with less effort.