Metaphysical Teleology

Metaphysical teleology is the study of purpose and goal-directedness in the nature of reality. In the context of substance and essence, it examines how things possess inherent purposes or ends that guide their development and behaviors. For instance, an acorn has the essence of becoming an oak tree, implying a purpose in its growth. This perspective suggests that substances are not just defined by their physical properties, but also by their inherent goals. Thus, the essence of a being includes not only what it is, but also what it is meant to become.