Full Idea
Once we can legitimize a disposition term by defining the relevant similarity standard, we are apt to know the mechanism of the disposition, and so by-pass the similarity.
Gist of Idea
Once we know the mechanism of a disposition, we can eliminate 'similarity'
Source
Willard Quine (Natural Kinds [1969], p.135)
Book Reference
Quine,Willard: 'Ontological Relativity and Other Essays' [Columbia 1969], p.135
A Reaction
I love mechanisms, but can we characterise mechanisms without mentioning powers and dispositions? Quine's dream is to eliminate 'similarity'.
Related Idea
Idea 16947 Similarity is just interchangeability in the cosmic machine [Quine]