Single Idea 13208

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 6. Early Matter Theories / f. Ancient elements]

Full Idea

The followers of Anaxagoras regard the 'homoeomeries' as 'simple' and elements, whilst they affirm that Earth, Fire, Water and Air are composite; for each of these is (according to them) a 'common seminary' of all the homoeomeries.

Clarification

Homoeomeries have all their parts the same; examples given are flesh and bone

Gist of Idea

Anaxagoreans regard the homoeomeries as elements, which compose earth, air, fire and water

Source

report of Anaxagoras (fragments/reports [c.460 BCE]) by Aristotle - Coming-to-be and Passing-away (Gen/Corr) 314a28

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'The Basic Works of Aristotle', ed/tr. McKeon,Richard [Modern Library Classics 2001], p.471


A Reaction

Compare Idea 13207. Aristotle is amused that the followers of Empedocles and of Anaxagoras have precisely opposite views on this subject.

Related Idea

Idea 13207 Fire, Water, Air and Earth are elements, being simple as well as homoeomerous [Empedocles, by Aristotle]