Single Idea 13216

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 6. Early Matter Theories / a. Greek matter]

Full Idea

The matter is that of which points and lines are limits, and it is something that can never exist without quality and without form.

Gist of Idea

Matter is the limit of points and lines, and must always have quality and form

Source

Aristotle (Coming-to-be and Passing-away (Gen/Corr) [c.335 BCE], 320b16)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'The Basic Works of Aristotle', ed/tr. McKeon,Richard [Modern Library Classics 2001], p.487


A Reaction

There seems to be a contradiction here somewhere. Matter has to be substantial enough to have a form, and yet seems to be the collective 'limit' of the points and lines. I wonder what 'limit' is translating? Sounds a bit too modern.