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Single Idea 12282

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / B. Properties / 1. Nature of Properties]

Full Idea

If it does not at present exist, or, if it has not existed in the past, or if it is not going to exist in the future, it will not be a property [idion] at all.

Clarification

'Idion' is a strictly individual property

Gist of Idea

An individual property has to exist (in past, present or future)

Source

Aristotle (Topics [c.331 BCE], 129a27)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Posterior Analytics and Topica', ed/tr. Tredennick,H/Foster,ES [Harvard 1960], p.485


A Reaction

This seems to cramp our style in counterfactual discussion. Can't we even mention an individual property if we believe that it will never exist. Utopian political discussion will have to cease!