Single Idea 15854

[catalogued under 2. Reason / D. Definition / 4. Real Definition]

Full Idea

A primary element cannot be expressed in an account; it can only be named, for a name is all that it has. But with the things composed of these ...just as the elements are woven together, so the names can woven to become an account.

Gist of Idea

A primary element has only a name, and no logos, but complexes have an account, by weaving the names

Source

Plato (Theaetetus [c.364 BCE], 202b01-3)

Book Reference

Plato: 'Complete Works', ed/tr. Cooper,John M. [Hackett 1997], p.223


A Reaction

This is the beginning of what I see as Aristotle's metaphysics, as derived from his epistemology, that is, ontology is what explains, and what we can give an account [logos] of. Aristotle treats this under 'definitions'.