Single Idea 12272

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

Full Idea

We usually isolate the appropriate description of the essence of a particular thing by means of the differentiae which are peculiar to it.

Gist of Idea

We describe the essence of a particular thing by means of its differentiae

Source

Aristotle (Topics [c.331 BCE], 108b05)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Posterior Analytics and Topica', ed/tr. Tredennick,H/Forster,ES [Harvard 1960], p.327


A Reaction

I take this to be important for showing the definition is more than mere categorisation. A good definition homes in the particular, by gradually narrowing down the differentiae.