Single Idea 16670

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / B. Properties / 8. Properties as Modes]

Full Idea

An accident is a mode of conceiving a body.

Clarification

'Accidents' are contingent features

Gist of Idea

Accidents are just modes of thinking about bodies

Source

Thomas Hobbes (De Corpore (Elements, First Section) [1655], 2.08.02)

Book Reference

Hobbes,Thomas: 'Metaphysical Writings', ed/tr. Calkins,Mary Whiton [Open Court 1905], p.54


A Reaction

In contrast to the other thinkers who followed Suárez on modes in the early 17th century, Hobbes thinks they are just ways of 'conceiving' bodies, rather than actual features of them.