Single Idea 17864

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / D. Laws of Nature / 8. Scientific Essentialism / e. Anti scientific essentialism]

Full Idea

The natures of things are neither exhausted nor even partially given by 'defining essences'.

Gist of Idea

Defining an essence comes no where near giving a thing's nature

Source

Joseph Almog (Nature Without Essence [2010], Intro)

Book Reference

-: 'Journal of Philosophy' [-], p.360


A Reaction

A better criticism of essentialism. 'Natures' is a much vaguer word than 'essences', however, because the latter refers to what is stable and important, whereas natures could include any aspect. Being ticklish is in my nature, but not in my essence.