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Single Idea 15684

[filed under theme 9. Objects / D. Essence of Objects / 1. Essences of Objects ]

Full Idea

Children incorporate a variety of nonobvious features into their concepts, including internal parts, functions, causes, and ontological distinctions.

Gist of Idea

Children's concepts include nonobvious features, like internal parts, functions and causes

Source

Susan A. Gelman (The Essential Child [2003], 01 'Prelims')

Book Ref

Gelman,Susan A.: 'The Essential Child' [OUP 2005], p.13


A Reaction

This remark sums up the general thesis of her book, which she supports with a wealth of first-hand evidence. It supports my view, that the desire and need for explanation is at the root of essentialist concepts. It's hard wired in us.