Single Idea 16620

[catalogued under 9. Objects / C. Structure of Objects / 2. Hylomorphism / a. Hylomorphism]

Full Idea

Nothing can be compounded of matter and form. The matter of a chair is wood; the form is the figure it has, apt for the intended use. Does his Lordship think the chair compounded of the wood and the figure?

Gist of Idea

A chair is wood, and its shape is the form; it isn't 'compounded' of the matter and form

Source

Thomas Hobbes (Letter to Bramhall [1650], 4:302), quoted by Robert Pasnau - Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671 07.1

Book Reference

Pasnau,Robert: 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' [OUP 2011], p.116


A Reaction

Aristotle does use the word 'shape' [morphe] when he is discussing hylomorphism, and the statue example seems to support it, but elsewhere the form is a much deeper principle of individuation.