Single Idea 15954

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 6. Early Matter Theories / b. Prime matter]

Full Idea

It has been held that Aristotle needed the conception of prime matter only because he held that the transmutation of one element into another is impossible.

Gist of Idea

Aristotle may only have believed in prime matter because his elements were immutable

Source

report of Aristotle (Metaphysics [c.324 BCE], matter) by Peter Alexander - Ideas, Qualities and Corpuscles 01.2

Book Reference

Alexander,Peter: 'Ideas, Qualities and Corpuscles' [CUP 1985], p.46