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Single Idea 16113

[from 'Metaphysics' by Aristotle, in 8. Modes of Existence / C. Powers and Dispositions / 1. Powers ]

Full Idea

Potentiality [dunamis] is a principle of change either (a) for something else or (b) for the thing that it is in qua something else.

Gist of Idea

Potentiality is a principle of change, in another thing, or as another thing

Source

Aristotle (Metaphysics [c.324 BCE], 1046a10)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Metaphysics', ed/tr. Lawson-Tancred,Hugh [Penguin 1998], p.254


A Reaction

Gill emphasises that it is partly an active principle of change. It seems like an ability to affect, or to be affected.

Related Ideas

Idea 16114 Active 'dunamis' is best translated as 'power' or 'ability' (rather than 'potentiality') [Aristotle, by Gill,ML]

Idea 16118 Nature is an active principle of change, like potentiality, but it is intrinsic to things [Aristotle]