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Single Idea 18522

[from 'The Universe as We Find It' by John Heil, in 8. Modes of Existence / B. Properties / 6. Categorical Properties ]

Full Idea

Categorical properties were introduced originally by philosophers bent on distinguishing properties possessed 'categorically', that is, actually, by objects from mere if-then, conditional properties, mere potentialities.

Gist of Idea

Categorical properties were introduced by philosophers as actual properties, not if-then properties

Source

John Heil (The Universe as We Find It [2012], 04.3)

Book Reference

Heil,John: 'The Universe as We Find It' [OUP 2012], p.58


A Reaction

He cites Ryle on dispositions in support. It is questionable whether it is a clear or useful distinction. Heil says the new distinction foreclosed the older more active view of properties.