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Single Idea 15959

[filed under theme 9. Objects / C. Structure of Objects / 2. Hylomorphism / a. Hylomorphism ]

Full Idea

If we account for the stability of a piece of brass by reference to the substantial form of brass, then it is mysterious how it can be melted and yet remain brass.

Gist of Idea

If the substantial form of brass implies its stability, how can it melt and remain brass?

Source

Peter Alexander (Ideas, Qualities and Corpuscles [1985], 02.3)

Book Ref

Alexander,Peter: 'Ideas, Qualities and Corpuscles' [CUP 1985], p.57


A Reaction

[Alexander is discussing Boyle]


The 6 ideas from Peter Alexander

Alchemists tried to separate out essences, which influenced later chemistry [Alexander,P]
If the substantial form of brass implies its stability, how can it melt and remain brass? [Alexander,P]
Science has been partly motivated by the belief that the universe is run by God's laws [Alexander,P]
Can the qualities of a body be split into two groups, where the smaller explains the larger? [Alexander,P]
The peripatetics treated forms and real qualities as independent of matter, and non-material [Alexander,P]
Absolute space either provides locations, or exists but lacks 'marks' for locations [Alexander,P]