Full Idea
It is plainly contrary to common sense to say that the phases in the history of a thing are parts of the thing.
Gist of Idea
Surely the past phases of a thing are not parts of the thing?
Source
C.D. Broad (Examination of McTaggart's Philosophy [1933], I.349-50), quoted by Richard Cartwright - Scattered Objects n18
Book Reference
Cartwright,Richard: 'Philosophical Essays' [MIT 1987], p.186
A Reaction
Nicely expressed! To suggest that me ten years ago is a mere part of some huge me, or that you are only talking to a part of me now, is a very long way indeed from normal usage.