The Thomistic Institute Teleology and Actuation | Prof. Candace Vogler
Apr 22, 2024
Prof. Candace Vogler discusses Aristotle's concepts of potency and actuality, teleology, and actuation. The conversation delves into how potency drives change, the relationship between teleology and goodness, and how individuals creatively interact with materials to achieve their goals.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Potency as Power
- Candace Vogler developed a stutter while studying potentiality and actuality.
- Father Lawrence Dwan helped her overcome this by explaining that "a potency is supposed to be a power" and "human beings see possibilities."
Nature's Limits
- In the natural world, coercion is common, but each nature has its limits.
- Things are susceptible to some changes and resistant to others, like making gloves from water.
Understanding Passive Potencies
- Passive potencies are best understood through the natures of the agent and the action/passion involved.
- Rocks can shatter, and wood can burn, based on their natures and the nature of fire.