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Single Idea 12047

[from 'Substance' by David Wiggins, in 9. Objects / B. Unity of Objects / 2. Substance / d. Substance defined ]

Full Idea

A substance is a persisting and somehow basic object of reference that is there to be discovered in perception and thought, an object whose claim to be recognized as a real entity is a claim on our aspirations to understand the world.

Gist of Idea

We refer to persisting substances, in perception and in thought, and they aid understanding

Source

David Wiggins (Substance [1995], 4.1)

Book Reference

'Philosophy: a Guide Through the Subject', ed/tr. Grayling,A.C. [OUP 1995], p.214


A Reaction

A lot of components are assigned by Wiggins to the concept, and the tricky job, inititiated by Aristotle, is to fit all the pieces together nicely. Personally I am wondering if the acceptance of 'essences' implies dropping 'substances'.