12303
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Within the four types of change, essential attributes are those whose loss means destruction
[Copi]
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Full Idea:
If we can distinguish the different kinds of change (alteration, locomotion, growth, diminution), then we can say that a given attribute is essential to an object if its loss would result in the destruction of that object.
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From:
Irving M. Copi (Essence and Accident [1954], p.707-8)
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A reaction:
As Copi is aware, this is a necessary condition for a property for essence, but not sufficient. If an attribute were necessary but non-essential, its loss would also be destruction. We say the essential attributes must also have some explanatory role.
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