Single Idea 20376

[catalogued under 9. Objects / D. Essence of Objects / 3. Individual Essences]

Full Idea

The overlooking of individuals gives us the concept and with this our knowledge begins: in categorising, in the setting up of kinds. But the essence of things does not correspond to this.

Gist of Idea

We begin with concepts of kinds, from individuals; but that is not the essence of individuals

Source

Friedrich Nietzsche (Works (refs to 8 vol Colli and Montinari) [1885], p.51)

Book Reference

Richardson,John: 'Nietzsche's System' [OUP 2002], p.231


A Reaction

[dated c1873] Aha! So Nietzsche agrees with me in my defence of individual essences, against kind essences (which seem to me to obviously derive from the nature of individuals). Deep in my heart I knew I would find this quotation one day.