Single Idea 15299

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / B. Natural Kinds / 7. Critique of Kinds]

Full Idea

We know from biology that naturally occurring species do not exhibit the constancy required by the concept of natural kind.

Gist of Idea

Species do not have enough constancy to be natural kinds

Source

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

Book Reference

Harré,R/Madden,E.H.: 'Causal Powers: A Theory of Natural Necessity' [Blackwell 1975], p.150


A Reaction

This view has been challenged recently. How much constancy does a natural kind need? Even protons decay eventually, it seems. I think a natural kind just needs a fair degree of stability over a reasonable time-period. Tigers qualify.