Single Idea 5080

[catalogued under 14. Science / D. Explanation / 1. Explanation / b. Aims of explanation]

Full Idea

We think we know a thing only when we have grasped its first causes and principles and have traced it back to its elements.

Gist of Idea

We know a thing if we grasp its first causes, principles and basic elements

Source

Aristotle (Physics [c.337 BCE], 184a12)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Physics', ed/tr. Waterfield,Robin [OUP 1996], p.9


A Reaction

A nice Aristotelian analysis. It is hard to see what else you need to know about a thunderstorm, once you know what causes it, the principles which guide its operation, and the elements of which it is composed. But doesn't Aristotle seek its purpose…?