Single Idea 11860

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / B. Natural Kinds / 3. Knowing Kinds]

Full Idea

For all the purposes of identity and individuation of things that belong to natural kinds..., it is enough to have regard for the lawlike propensities of members of the kind.

Gist of Idea

Lawlike propensities are enough to individuate natural kinds

Source

David Wiggins (Sameness and Substance Renewed [2001], 4.1)

Book Reference

Wiggins,David: 'Sameness and Substance Renewed' [CUP 2001], p.107


A Reaction

This may have got things in reverse, since it is hard to see how you could pick out any laws if you didn't assume the existence of natural kinds which were causing the regularities in the behaviour.