Combining Texts

Ideas for 'The Epistemology of Essentialist Claims', 'The Nature of Universals and Propositions' and 'Categories'

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2 ideas

26. Natural Theory / D. Laws of Nature / 5. Laws from Universals

14639	Individuals enter into laws only through their general qualities and relations [McMichael]
	Full Idea: Individuals appear to enter into laws only through their general qualities and relations.
	From: Alan McMichael (The Epistemology of Essentialist Claims [1986], VIII)
	A reaction: This is a very significant chicken-or-egg issue. The remark seems to offer the vision of pre-existing general laws, which individuals then join (like joining a club). But surely the laws are derived from the individuals? Where else could they come from?

26. Natural Theory / D. Laws of Nature / 8. Scientific Essentialism / b. Scientific necessity

11043	It is not possible for fire to be cold or snow black [Aristotle]
	Full Idea: It is not possible for fire to be cold or snow black.
	From: Aristotle (Categories [c.331 BCE], 12b01)