Full Idea
In set theory it is central to the iterative conception that the membership relation is well-founded, ...which means there are no infinite descending chains from any relation.
Gist of Idea
It is central to the iterative conception that membership is well-founded, with no infinite descending chains
Source
Stewart Shapiro (Foundations without Foundationalism [1991], 5.1.4)
Book Reference
Shapiro,Stewart: 'Foundations without Foundationalism' [OUP 1991], p.109