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Single Idea 16601

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 7. Later Matter Theories / c. Matter as extension]

Full Idea

The nature of matter, or body viewed as a whole, consists not in its being something which is hard, heavy, or colored, or which in any other way affects the senses, but only in its being a thing extended in length, breadth and depth.

Gist of Idea

Matter is not hard, heavy or coloured, but merely extended in space

Source

René Descartes (Principles of Philosophy [1646], 2.4), quoted by Robert Pasnau - Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671 04.5

Book Reference

Pasnau,Robert: 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' [OUP 2011], p.74