Single Idea 2800

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 2. Natural Purpose / b. Limited purposes]

Full Idea

Every instrument will be made best if it serves not many purposes but one.

Clarification

'Purpose' is the Greek word 'telos'

Gist of Idea

The best instruments have one purpose, not many

Source

Aristotle (Politics [c.332 BCE], 1252b03)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Politics', ed/tr. Sinclair,T.A. /Saunders,T. [Penguin 1992], p.57


A Reaction

Sound like a good general truth, but not a universal truth. Swiss army knife. Ship in a bottle. Pins. Wrapping paper.