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Single Idea 11258

[from 'Metaphysics' by Aristotle, in 5. Theory of Logic / L. Paradox / 2. Aporiai ]

Full Idea

We should first address those puzzles ('aporiai') that first arise. ..Subsequent progress depends on the resolution of the first puzzles, and one cannot solve these without knowing the difficulty, and our confusion shows this to be the case.

Gist of Idea

We must start with our puzzles, and progress by solving them, as they reveal the real difficulty

Source

Aristotle (Metaphysics [c.324 BCE], 0995a27-)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Metaphysics', ed/tr. Lawson-Tancred,Hugh [Penguin 1998], p.57


A Reaction

This stands in nice opposition to the Wittgenstein view, that confusion is largely a self-inflicted wound arising from our language, having little to do with reality. For Aristotle it is reality which is the source of our mental confusion. He's right.