Single Idea 15772

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / B. Value / 2. Values / b. Successful function]

Full Idea

A thing's active function is its end.

Gist of Idea

A thing's active function is its end

Source

Aristotle (Metaphysics [c.324 BCE], 1050a16)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Metaphysics', ed/tr. Lawson-Tancred,Hugh [Penguin 1998], p.274


A Reaction

This sort of remark is the basis of modern teleological functionalism about the mind. I think that is misguided. Don't define things by their function. They have functions because of intrinsic character.

Related Idea

Idea 5873 Each thing's function is its end [Aristotle]