The Coexistence of Contradictory Properties in the Same Subject According to Aristotle

Abstract

In Metaphysics, Book Gamma, Aristotle argues that he who asserts a contradiction is committed to a rejection of degrees. On the other hand, though, Aristotle claims that there can be no intermediary situation in-between pure or entire truth or existence and utter, complete falseness or nonexistence. Such a combination of views can be rendered noncontradictory at best through objectionable manoeuvres. Although Aristotle accepts that two contrary properties can be both present in the same object to some extent, he is, in order to keep clear of contradictions, bound to regard intermediary situations as something irreducibly different from both extremes.