Single Idea 16155

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / B. Properties / 2. Need for Properties]

Full Idea

In 'Categories' Aristotle is taking a first step in making the distinction between objects and properties central to ontology. This plays virtually no role in Plato, and was overshadowed by the distinction between general and particular.

Gist of Idea

Aristotle promoted the importance of properties and objects (rather than general and particular)

Source

report of Aristotle (Categories [c.331 BCE]) by Michael Frede - Individuals in Aristotle I

Book Reference

Frede,Michael: 'Essays in Ancient Philosophy' [University of Minnesota 1987], p.56


A Reaction

Frede says he gets in a tangle because he mixes the earlier and the new views. Because we are nowadays in a total muddle about properties, I'm thinking we should go back to the earlier view! Modern commentators make him a trope theorist.