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Single Idea 11208

[filed under theme 9. Objects / D. Essence of Objects / 6. Essence as Unifier ]

Full Idea

A simple substance is its own essence.

Gist of Idea

A simple substance is its own essence

Source

Thomas Aquinas (De Ente et Essentia (Being and Essence) [1267], p.103)

Book Ref

Aquinas,Thomas: 'Selected Philosophical Writings', ed/tr. McDermott,Timothy [OUP 1993], p.103


A Reaction

Aquinas takes complex substances to have their essences in various ways, but this thought is the basis of all essence. Presumably the Greek word 'ousia' names the key ingredient.