4 Rational Powers (Theta 2)

AbstractThis chapter analyzes the second chapter of Book Theta, which focuses on a certain important class of powers: those that consist in rational comprehension, referred to as rational powers. Such powers include the art of housebuilding and medicine. This characterization of rational powers is remarkably strong. A rational power does not merely require, or partly consist in, rational comprehension, but is rational comprehension. In order to act on one's rational comprehension, one needs a body that can do certain things. Even if the artisan does not do the things himself and tells others to do them instead, they need some means of communication. It is shown that Aristotle's conception relegates these requirements to necessary conditions for the exercise of a power, not for having the power.