Single Idea 12818

[catalogued under 7. Existence / C. Structure of Existence / 8. Stuff / b. Mixtures]

Full Idea

Suppose that water, qua vapour, mixes with the atmosphere. Is there any abstract metaphysical principle, other than that of atomism, which implies that water must, in any such process, retain its identity? That claim seems indefensible.

Gist of Idea

We shouldn't think some water retains its identity when it is mixed with air

Source

Henry Laycock (Words without Objects [2006], 1.2 n22)

Book Reference

Laycock,Henry: 'Words without Objects' [OUP 2006], p.29


A Reaction

It can't be right that some stuff always loses its identity in a mixture, if the mixture was in a closed vessel, and then separated again. Dispersion is what destroys the identity, not mixing.