more from Thomas Aquinas

Single Idea 11203

[catalogued under 9. Objects / D. Essence of Objects / 2. Types of Essence]

Full Idea

Specific essence differs from generic essence by being demarcated: individuals are demarcated within species by dimensionally defined material, but species within genus by a defining differentiation taken from the form.

Gist of Idea

Specific individual essence is defined by material, and generic essence is defined by form

Source

Thomas Aquinas (De Ente et Essentia (Being and Essence) [1267], p.95)

Book Reference

Aquinas,Thomas: 'Selected Philosophical Writings', ed/tr. McDermott,Timothy [OUP 1993], p.95


A Reaction

It clearly won't be enough to define an individual just to define its material and its shape. The material might also be essential to the genus, as when defining fire. Probably not very helpful.