Single Idea 23637

[catalogued under 12. Knowledge Sources / B. Perception / 2. Qualities in Perception / c. Primary qualities]

Full Idea

The primary qualities are the object of the mathematical sciences.

Gist of Idea

Primary qualities are the object of mathematics

Source

Thomas Reid (Essays on Intellectual Powers 2: Senses [1785], 17)

Book Reference

Reid,Thomas: 'Inquiry and Essays', ed/tr. Beanblossom /K.Lehrer [Hackett 1983], p.184


A Reaction

He spells out this crucial point, which is not so obvious in Locke. The sciences totally rely on the primary qualities, so it is ridiculous to reject the distinction (which Reid accepts).