Capable Quote by Aristotle
“If thinking is like perceiving, it must be either a process in which the soul is acted upon by what is capable of being thought, or a process different from but analogous to that. The thinking part of the soul must therefore be, while impassable, capable of receiving the form of an object; that is, must be potentially identical in character with its object without being the object. Mind must be related to what is thinkable, as sense is to what is sensible.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: De Anima, Book III, 1053b
Thinking is a receptive activity of the soul, analogous to perception, capable of forming forms without becoming the objects themselves.
In simple terms: Thinking receives forms like perception receives sensations.
Key Takeaway
Recognize thinking as a distinct, receptive process.
Themes
philosophy
mind
perception
metaphysics
Mood
contemplative
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
theoretical
When to use this quote
- Academic study
- personal reflection
- creative problem solving
Key Concepts
Form theory
potentiality
analogical reasoning
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this view affect our understanding of consciousness?
- Can we train the soul to receive clearer forms?
A Different Perspective
Mind’s passive reception may limit active creation.
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