Single Idea 15297

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

Full Idea

If we know the nature of a particular that explains its properties, powers and capacities and relates them into intelligible clusters, then we can indeed infer from some of the powers and properties to others via its essential nature.

Gist of Idea

We can infer a new property of a thing from its other properties, via its essential nature

Source

Harré,R./Madden,E.H. (Causal Powers [1975], 8.III)

Book Reference

Harré,R/Madden,E.H.: 'Causal Powers: A Theory of Natural Necessity' [Blackwell 1975], p.149


A Reaction

This is an optimistic assertion of precisely the possibility which Locke denied in Idea 12547. This optimism is the main reason for the revival of scientific essentialism in recent years. It just seems to be true of modern science.

Related Idea

Idea 12547 We know five properties of gold, but cannot use four of them to predict the fifth one [Locke]