Single Idea 5086

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 2. Natural Purpose / b. Limited purposes]

Full Idea

The nature of a thing is its end and purpose.

Gist of Idea

The nature of a thing is its end and purpose

Source

Aristotle (Physics [c.337 BCE], 194a29)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Physics', ed/tr. Waterfield,Robin [OUP 1996], p.37


A Reaction

Cf 5084. This is the teleologists' manifesto, but it is very hard to find out why Aristotle took this view. He seems to offer it as self-evident. What would he have made of the proposal that there is no ultimate purpose to anything?

Related Idea

Idea 5084 A thing's nature is what causes its changes and stability [Aristotle]