more on this theme     |     more from this text


Single Idea 16570

[filed under theme 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 6. Early Matter Theories / f. Ancient elements ]

Full Idea

On one possible description, an element is what is found last when bodies are taken apart, and what is found first when bodies are generated.

Gist of Idea

Elements are found last in dismantling bodies, and first in generating them

Source

Albert of Saxony (On 'Generation and Corruption' [1356], II.3), quoted by Robert Pasnau - Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671 2.1

Book Ref

Pasnau,Robert: 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' [OUP 2011], p.17


The 4 ideas from Albert of Saxony

Elements are found last in dismantling bodies, and first in generating them [Albert of Saxony]
Everything that exists is either a substance or an accident [Albert of Saxony]
God could make a successive thing so that previous parts cease to exist [Albert of Saxony]
Successive entities just need parts to succeed one another, without their existence [Albert of Saxony]