De mixtione V–VI: common notions and bodies receiving bodies

Haas, F.A.J. de (2023)

Part of book or chapter of book

In this paper I first set out the role of common notions in the structure of Alexander’s argument in Mixt. V–VI. Furthermore, I argue that a series of topics discussed in Mixt. V–VI, Mant. XIV and Quaest. II.12 concern the initial stages of Stoic as well as Peripatetic blending rather than the resulting blend. The presence of certain types of (filled) pores and changes in density both facilitate mutual division; mutual divi- sion and coextension go hand in hand until a degree of juxtaposition of ingredients is reached which easily allows for the specific interaction that creates the final blend: interaction of qualities for the Peripatetics, tensional dynamics for the Stoics. In addition, I show that a list of stock examples used by Alexander also raises serious questions concerning changes in density and volume, which Aristotle, Alexander and the Stoics had to deal with. I suggest that the role of pores found in Meteorology IV may have been part of the solution for some of Alexander’s contemporaries. Throughout the arguments in the chapters V–VI, indeed throughout the De mixtione, Alexander consistently tries to replace a comprehensive materialist metaphysics of interacting bodies by his own equally comprehensive brand of hylomorphism—even if not every argument is equally convincing.

• Mixture
• Common notions
• Co-extension
• Pores
• Density
• Volume
• Meteorology IV

• All authors: Haas, F.A.J. de
• Editor(s): Guyomarc'h, G.
• Date: 2023-11-29
• Title of host publication: Philosophia Antiqua; Studies on Alexander of Aphrodisias’ on mixture and growth
• Pages: 83 - 99
• ISBN (print): 9789004686014
• ISBN (electronic): 9789004686021
• DOI: doi:10.1163/9789004686021_005
• Link: https://doi.org/10.1163/9789004686021_005
• Name: 170