Full Idea
I want to insist on the existence of a class of categorical properties distinct from causal powers. This is contentious, for there is a growing body of opinion that all properties are causal powers.
Gist of Idea
I support categorical properties, although most people only want causal powers
Source
Brian Ellis (The Metaphysics of Scientific Realism [2009], Intro)
Book Reference
Ellis,Brian: 'The Metaphysics of Scientific Realism' [Acument 2009], p.2
A Reaction
Alexander Bird makes a case against categorical properties. If what is meant is that 'being an electron' is the key property of an electron, then I disagree (quite strongly) with Ellis. Ellis says they are needed to explain causal powers.