Single Idea 18400

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / C. Powers and Dispositions / 5. Powers and Properties]

Full Idea

Properties are not powers. But properties have powers. They bestow powers.

Gist of Idea

Properties are not powers - they just have powers

Source

David M. Armstrong (Truth and Truthmakers [2004], 10.4)

Book Reference

Armstrong,D.M.: 'Truth and Truthmakers' [CUP 2004], p.141


A Reaction

I think this is the wrong way round. In this view, powers become extremely vague things, ranging from the fine-grained to the hugely broad. It seems to me that powers are precise and real, but properties are the vague unhelpful things.