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Single Idea 11998

[from 'Metaphysics' by Aristotle, in 9. Objects / D. Essence of Objects / 3. Individual Essences ]

Full Idea

Aristotle does not label 'essential' what are now called 'individual essences'. The properties which belong essentially to an individual are always general properties, capable of belonging to more than one thing.

Gist of Idea

Aristotle does not accept individual essences; essential properties are always general

Source

report of Aristotle (Metaphysics [c.324 BCE], ess) by Joan Kung - Aristotle on Essence and Explanation IV

Book Reference

-: 'Philosophical Studies' [-], p.369


A Reaction

[She offers four references from 'Metaphysics' in support] I think I want to disagree with Aristotle on this one (gulp). Thus his essential properties are one-over-many - his version of universals. I say individuals explain universals, and are prior.