Single Idea 11995

[catalogued under 14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / k. Explanations by essence]

Full Idea

There will be demonstrated properties at the edge of the system, so to speak. They will be explained in terms of the essential properties of the basic entities and principles of the science, but will themselves not be explanatory of further properties.

Gist of Idea

Some peripheral properties are explained by essential ones, but don't themselves explain properties

Source

Joan Kung (Aristotle on Essence and Explanation [1977], II)

Book Reference

-: 'Philosophical Studies' [-], p.366


A Reaction

This is an important line of thought which needs clarification. We can't glibly say that essences are what explain the other properties. Some properties do more than others to explain subsequent dependent properties.