Single Idea 17240

[catalogued under 1. Philosophy / D. Nature of Philosophy / 5. Aims of Philosophy / e. Philosophy as reason]

Full Idea

In beginning philosophy, the first beginning is from definitions.

Gist of Idea

Definitions are the first step in philosophy

Source

Thomas Hobbes (De Corpore (Elements, First Section) [1655], 1.6.15)

Book Reference

Hobbes,Thomas: 'Metaphysical Writings', ed/tr. Calkins,Mary Whiton [Open Court 1905], p.35


A Reaction

Note that he doesn't say that definitions are the aim of philosophy, as some analysts might think.