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Single Idea 10947

[from 'Metaphysics' by Aristotle, in 8. Modes of Existence / B. Properties / 8. Properties as Modes ]

Full Idea

Whiteness can be explained without man, but femaleness cannot be explained without animal.

Gist of Idea

Whiteness can be explained without man, but femaleness cannot be explained without animal

Source

Aristotle (Metaphysics [c.324 BCE], 1030b28)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Metaphysics', ed/tr. Lawson-Tancred,Hugh [Penguin 1998], p.183


A Reaction

This has to be a key basic distinction in any discussion of properties. But does the difference in explanation entail a difference in fundamental nature? Femaleness is structural.