Single Idea 16790

[catalogued under 9. Objects / C. Structure of Objects / 8. Parts of Objects / b. Sums of parts]

Full Idea

A body is always the same, whether the parts of it be put together or dispersed; or whether it be congealed or dissolved.

Gist of Idea

A body is always the same, whether the parts are together or dispersed

Source

Thomas Hobbes (De Corpore (Elements, First Section) [1655], 2.11.07)

Book Reference

Hobbes,Thomas: 'Metaphysical Writings', ed/tr. Calkins,Mary Whiton [Open Court 1905], p.85


A Reaction

This appears to be a commitment by Hobbes to what we now call 'classical' mereology - that any bunch of things can count as a whole, whether they are together or dispersed. He seems to mean more than a watch surviving dismantling.