more from Robert Pasnau

Single Idea 16760

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / D. Laws of Nature / 8. Scientific Essentialism / a. Scientific essentialism]

Full Idea

Substantial forms might well be viewed as an early step in the development of scientific essentialism.

Gist of Idea

Substantial forms were a step towards scientific essentialism

Source

Robert Pasnau (Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671 [2011], 24.4)

Book Reference

Pasnau,Robert: 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' [OUP 2011], p.564


A Reaction

This is the scholastic view of substantial forms, which is much more physical and causal, rather than Aristotle's more abstract view. The rejection of substantial forms led to the 'Humean' view of laws of nature.