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Single Idea 10948

[from 'Metaphysics' by Aristotle, in 8. Modes of Existence / D. Universals / 6. Platonic Forms / a. Platonic Forms ]

Full Idea

Suppose that there are certain substances to which neither other substances nor other natures are prior. It is such substances that certain philosophers assert the Forms to be.

Gist of Idea

Forms are said to be substances to which nothing is prior

Source

Aristotle (Metaphysics [c.324 BCE], 1031a30)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Metaphysics', ed/tr. Lawson-Tancred,Hugh [Penguin 1998], p.186


A Reaction

Then there is the difficulty of explaining 'prior', which presumably must be an objective relation, not a mere priority in human understanding or explanation or definition.