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Single Idea 16625

[filed under theme 9. Objects / C. Structure of Objects / 2. Hylomorphism / c. Form as causal ]

Full Idea

Prime, common matter seems to be a kind of accessory and to stand as a substratum, whereas any kind of action seems to be a mere emanation of form. So it is that forms are given all the leading parts.

Gist of Idea

In hylomorphism all the explanation of actions is in the form, and the matter doesn't do anything

Source

Francis Bacon (Philosophical Studies 1611-19 [1617], p.206), quoted by Robert Pasnau - Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671 07.2

Book Ref

Pasnau,Robert: 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' [OUP 2011], p.123

A Reaction

This is a very striking criticism of hylomorphism. The revolution was simple - that actually matter seems to do all the real work, and the form can take a back seat.

The 20 ideas from Francis Bacon

12117 Science moves up and down between inventions of causes, and experiments [Bacon]
12119 Physics studies transitory matter; metaphysics what is abstracted and necessary [Bacon]
12120 Physics is of material and efficient causes, metaphysics of formal and final causes [Bacon]
12118 Essences are part of first philosophy, but as part of nature, not part of logic [Bacon]
12121 We don't assume there is no land, because we can only see sea [Bacon]
12123 Natural history supports physical knowledge, which supports metaphysical knowledge [Bacon]
12124 Metaphysics is the best knowledge, because it is the simplest [Bacon]
12125 Teleological accounts are fine in metaphysics, but they stop us from searching for the causes [Bacon]
12126 People love (unfortunately) extreme generality, rather than particular knowledge [Bacon]
12127 Many different theories will fit the observed facts [Bacon]
3648 Empiricists are collecting ants; rationalists are spinning spiders; and bees do both [Bacon]
16724 The senses deceive, but also show their own errors [Bacon]
6602 Philosophy is like a statue which is worshipped but never advances [Bacon]
6603 Nature is revealed when we put it under pressure rather than observe it [Bacon]
16639 Only individual bodies exist [Bacon]
21950 Science must clear away the idols of the mind if they are ever going to find the truth [Bacon]
16033 There are only individual bodies containing law-based powers, and the Forms are these laws [Bacon]
7399 Even without religion, there are many guides to morality [Bacon]
16624 Stripped and passive matter is just a human invention [Bacon]
16625 In hylomorphism all the explanation of actions is in the form, and the matter doesn't do anything [Bacon]