Single Idea 12305

[catalogued under 9. Objects / D. Essence of Objects / 9. Essence and Properties]

Full Idea

For Locke the real essence of a thing is a set of properties which determine all the other properties of that thing [3.3.15], so essential properties are not retained during any change, and there is no real knowledge of the essence of things.

Gist of Idea

Locke's essences determine the other properties, so the two will change together

Source

report of John Locke (Essay Conc Human Understanding (2nd Ed) [1694], 3.03) by Irving M. Copi - Essence and Accident p.712

Book Reference

-: 'Journal of Philosophy' [-], p.712


A Reaction

Although I like the Aristotelian view, this account of Locke's must be taken seriously. Compare Idea 12304. If Aristotelian essence founds scientific knowledge, then a thing with varying behaviour has a varying essence.

Related Idea

Idea 12304 Aristotelian essence is retained with identity through change, and bases our scientific knowledge [Aristotle, by Copi]