Single Idea 1726

[catalogued under 12. Knowledge Sources / C. Rationalism / 1. Rationalism]

Full Idea

Perception is of particular things, but knowledge is of universals, which are in a way in the soul itself. Thus a man may think whenever he wishes, but not perceive.

Gist of Idea

We may think when we wish, but not perceive, because universals are within the mind

Source

Aristotle (De Anima [c.329 BCE], 417b22)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'De Anima (On the Soul)', ed/tr. Lawson-Tancred,H.C. [Penguin 1986], p.171