Substance Theory
Substance Theory is a philosophical idea that distinguishes between universals and particulars. Universals are general qualities or properties (like "redness" or "beauty"), while particulars are individual objects (like a red apple or a beautiful sunset). According to Substance Theory, substances are the fundamental entities that exist independently and can possess these qualities. For example, the apple is a particular substance that has the universal property of redness. This theory helps clarify how we understand objects in the world: as distinct entities that embody various attributes, which can change or remain constant over time.
Additional Insights
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Substance theory is a philosophical idea that focuses on what it means for something to exist. It suggests that objects or beings—like a tree or a person—are composed of a fundamental substance that gives them their identity and persists through change. For example, even if a tree loses its leaves or grows new ones, it remains the same tree because its underlying substance remains constant. This theory contrasts with views that see objects as merely collections of changing properties or characteristics, emphasizing the importance of a stable essence that underlies our experiences and perceptions of the world.