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Single Idea 16110

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

Full Idea

On account of the difficulty [about unity] some philosophers have espoused participation, though this plunges them into difficulties about what the cause of the participation is, or indeed what participating is anyway.

Gist of Idea

If partaking explains unity, what causes participating, and what is participating?

Source

Aristotle (Metaphysics [c.324 BCE], 1045b07)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Metaphysics', ed/tr. Lawson-Tancred,Hugh [Penguin 1998], p.250


A Reaction

The target here is Plato, and I agree with the criticism. Exactly the same problems face those who talk of an object 'instantiating' a property. I have no idea what such a relationship could be.