more from John Locke

Single Idea 16035

[catalogued under 9. Objects / D. Essence of Objects / 10. Essence as Species]

Full Idea

If things were distinguished into species according to real essences, it would be impossible to find different properties in two individual substances of the same species, as it is to find different properties in two circles or two equilateral triangles.

Gist of Idea

If we based species on real essences, the individuals would be as indistinguishable as two circles

Source

John Locke (Essay Conc Human Understanding (2nd Ed) [1694], 3.06.08)

Book Reference

Locke,John: 'Essay Concerning Human Understanding', ed/tr. Nidditch,P.H. [OUP 1979], p.443


A Reaction

Of course circles or triangles can differ in size. Locke was greatly impressed by individual variation in creatures ('monsters'). My cat isn't just any old cat. Species essentialism must at least acknowledge more than mere essences.