Single Idea 22508

[catalogued under 20. Action / C. Motives for Action / 3. Acting on Reason / a. Practical reason]

Full Idea

In inanimate things the starting-point is single, in animate things there is more than one; for inclination and reason are not always in harmony.

Gist of Idea

Unlike in inanimate things, in animate things actions have more than one starting point

Source

Aristotle (Eudemian Ethics [c.333 BCE], 1224a24)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Eudemian Ethics I,II and VIII', ed/tr. Woods,Michael [OUP 1992], p.25


A Reaction

It is important that this seems to include non-human animals. We see animals avoid something which they desire, presumably because they detect a danger. They may be conflicting desires, but it is rational to prioritise dangers.

Related Idea

Idea 22504 Only a human being can be a starting point for an action [Aristotle]