Single Idea 15848

[catalogued under 9. Objects / C. Structure of Objects / 6. Constitution of an Object]

Full Idea

Mereologists do suppose that constitution is a criterion of identity. This view is enshrined in the Mereological axiom of extensionality; that objects with the same parts are identical.

Gist of Idea

Mereology treats constitution as a criterion of identity, as shown in the axiom of extensionality

Source

Verity Harte (Plato on Parts and Wholes [2002], 3.1)

Book Reference

Harte,Verity: 'Plato on Parts and Wholes' [OUP 2002], p.121


A Reaction

A helpful explanation of why classical mereology is a very confused view of the world. It is at least obvious that a long wall and a house are different things, even if built of identical bricks.