Single Idea 12497

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / C. Causation / 4. Naturalised causation]

Full Idea

Power being the source from whence all action proceeds, the substances wherein these powers are, when they exert this power into act, are called 'causes'.

Gist of Idea

Causes are the substances which have the powers to produce action

Source

John Locke (Essay Conc Human Understanding (2nd Ed) [1694], 2.22.11)

Book Reference

Locke,John: 'Essay Concerning Human Understanding', ed/tr. Nidditch,P.H. [OUP 1979], p.294


A Reaction

This is causes as actual entities, rather than as conjunctions of events. Personally I find this view of Locke's very congenial, no matter how unfashionable it may be.