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Single Idea 16759

[from 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' by Robert Pasnau, in 9. Objects / C. Structure of Objects / 2. Hylomorphism / c. Form as causal ]

Full Idea

The whole scholastic conception of substantial form came to have more and more in common with an Aristotelian efficient cause.

Gist of Idea

Scholastics began to see substantial form more as Aristotle's 'efficient' cause

Source

Robert Pasnau (Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671 [2011], 24.2)

Book Reference

Pasnau,Robert: 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' [OUP 2011], p.563


A Reaction

Aristotle, of course, identified the form with the 'formal cause [aitia]', which is the shape of the statue, rather than the efficient cause, which is the sculptor.