THE ART OF LOGICK, DELIVERED IN THE PRECEPTS OF ARISTOTLE AND RAMVS.
VVHEREIN
- 1. The agreement of both Authors is declared.
- 2. The defects in Ramus, are supplyed, and his superfluities pared off, by the Precepts of Aristotle.
- 3. The precepts of both, are expounded and applyed to vse, by the assistance of the best Schoolemen.
By THO: SPENCER.
LONDON Printed by Iohn Dawson for Nicholas Bourne, at the South entrance of the Royall Exchange. 1638.
TO THE READER.
REader; The publishing of this Treatise, submits it to thy judgment. It may be thou wilt judge it of little worth, because thou esteemest 1. the Authors credit to be small, 2. the Art it selfe to be obscure, and 3. of little vse, and 4. the worke to be imperfect, and 5. vnfitly put forth in the English tongue. But this Preface shall make it cleare, thou art mistaken in all these particulars.
1. Though my own credit be small: yet this neede not hinder thy good liking, because my labour is but to collect out of other Authors. So that if the credit of Authors will please thee, I need not feare thy displeasure, for here thou hast Authors of all ages, and of the best account, yea Aristotle himselfe, the Prince of Philosophers (as the learned vse to call [Page]him) leads thee the way, and guides the whole game.
2. Some account the art it selfe of Logicke to be obscure, and therefore hard to be attained: but though this were true, yet is it worthy of all that honour that is due to any humane art whatsoever, because the difficultie ariseth not from the thing it selfe: (for it agrees to humane reason, being no more but a comprehension of precepts, directing the vse of true reason) but from mans defect, as being either vnable for want of natural parts, or vnwilling through idlenes to learne it. But grant this Art were in it selfe obscure, yet is it no lesse honourable for that, because silver, gold, and other pretious mettals are hard to obtaine: yet are they highly esteemed of (as daily experience shews) for what labour will not men take, and what hazard will they not vndergoe to get and hold them? Nay [Page]I adde further, that the difficultie of attaining vnto this Art, makes it more honourable when it is attained; for things hardly gotten are rare, and rare things are pretious, especially when they are of excellent vse: and such is this Art of Logicke, as my answer to the next will shew.
3. Many are of opinion, that Logicke is vnprofitable, & of little vse, as serving to exercise the witts of yong Schollers, and that therefore when they grow vnto yeares, they doe wholly neglect it. This judgement is erronious; for whatsoever tends to some good, is truely profitable: and this is the case with the precepts of Logicke, because hereby (in some sort) is healed the wound we received in our reason by Adams fall: and this daily tryall teacheth, because by the precepts of Logicke, things hidden and darke, are clearely objected to our judgement. Truth [Page]and falshood is made to stand naked before our knowledge.
It may be some will conceiue that mans naturall Logicke will serue sufficiently for the foresaid ends, and that therefore there is no neede of precepts.
I answer. True it is, many mans naturall parts are ripe and prompt, so as they are speedy and sound in judging. But this is not every mans case, therfore vnto such the precepts of Art are needfull. Yea, I say, that such precepts are needfull to the promptest witts, for man hath not now so ample vse of reason as Adam had at his first Creation, and therefore he needs the helpe o [...] artificiall precepts.
To conclude, since the Art of Logicke is no more but a Directour of true Reason: the more logicall a man is, the more is he like a man, and the lesse logicall, the lesse like a man [Page]who is a reasonable Creature. If this be true (as it is most true) then must it be granted that the precepts of this Art, are profitable for the vse of man in the highest degree.
4. This worke is not imperfect, because no precept, essentiall vnto Logicke, is wanting. I haue indeed omitted the modality and conversion of propositions and Elenchs: but this breeds no defect in the art, for these three appertaine to the exposition of the precepts of this Art: they are no essentiall precepts therof. 1. The modalitie of propositions doth explicate the subject or predicate of the proposition wherein it is. 2. The Conversion of a proposition is no more, but the right placing of things not rightly placed in a proposition. And 3. Elenchs are the detections of falshood in the forme of syllogismes.
5. Our Mother Tongue doth not [Page]disgrace this Art of Logicke to the English, no more then Greeke did to the Grecians, or the Latine to the Romanes: for if it had, then would not Aristotle haue written his Logicke in Greeke, nor Tully his in Latine. We haue the holy Scriptures in our mother tongue, without disgrace thervnto, why then should it be disgracefull to Logicke? Besides, some men vnderstād not Latin, & yet haue they neede of Logicke, because they need the helps to the vse of reason.
Thus (I hope) full satisfaction is given to every doubt that might hinder thy profit by this art now offred vnto thee: so as nothing more seemes needfull, or worthy thy labour and mine: therefore here I will end all that I haue to say for this thing.
THE ART OF LOGICK
CHAP. I. The Definition of Logick.
LOGICK is an Art of discoursing well. Ramus.
In this sence, it is called Dialectick.
This sentence defineth, 1 or setteth out the whole nature of Logick. Aristotle hath the same for substance. Top: lib. 1. Cap. 2. In these words;
Dialectick is profitable vnto
- Congresse,
- Excercitation,
- Philosophicall science.
Ramus confesseth in his Schooles [Page 2]vpon this place alledged, that, this sentence comprehendeth (well neere) all the notable things of Logick: and therefore, (in his Iudgement,) it is a definition of it. The thing it selfe doth say no lesse: for, the three words attributed by him to Logick or Dialectick, doe signifie, discoursing well. Ramus makes discoursing the end of Logick: Aristotle doth the same, by the word profitable, for, as we learne by Thom: 1 a. 2ae. q: 7. art. 2. incor. q. 8. art. 3. Sed. con. Every good, ordained to some end, is sayd to be profitable: That which tendeth to some end is called profitable.
2 Logick is
- Naturall.
- Artificiall.
Naturall Logick is either the vnderstanding it selfe, in that respect, that of i'ts proper, and specificall difference, it hath a power of discoursing; or rather, the certaine knowledge of the manner, or wayes of discoursing, which the reason it selfe, bringeth forth, without the helpe of any order, or method. Thus [Page 3]farre the Iesuites (in their preface before the Organon Colleg: Conimbr: q. 6. art. 2. col 62. Logick is here taken for artificiall, not naturall: so the same Iesuites tell vs in that preface. col: 67. Aristotle implyes this distinction, in the first chapter, and first booke of his Rhetoricke: A man (sayth he) is a Logician by nature, or art.
[Logick Dialectick.] 3 Both these names are vsed indifferently, to set out the thing defined: and, we haue the frequent vse of learned men to avow it: The Iesuites doe expresly teach it, in their Commentary vpon Aristotles Organon, Col: 26. neere to the end, in these words, The whole art of discoursing, is set out, by, either the word Logick, or the word Dialectick. And, they doe not barely avouch it; but, they confirme it with plentie of proofes, as the Reader may finde, if he please to consult the place-alledged.
Both the words doe signifie no more, but, a thing appertaining vnto the vse of reason; therefore, the Iesuites [Page 4]in the same Preface, q. 4. art. 4. Col: 40. doe conceiue, that, Logick (in an vniversall apprehension) is no more, but, a director of the art of reason. And, Suarez hath the same thing, in his Metaphysicks disp. 39. D.
[Is:] 4 This word, is the band, to tye both parts of the definition together. By it, the later part is affirmed of the former, and, it signifies an essentiall attribution (that is) that, the latter part of the definition doth giue being vnto the former; so as, the first doth consist in the second.
[An art:] 5 The word art, doth set out the generall nature of Logick: (that is) it doth signifie, that nature which Logick hath in common with divers other things: as, Grammar, and Rhetorick &c. It is called an art, in the most common vse of men; sometime it is called also a science, and, that we find in the Iesuites Preface q. 4. art. 3. Aristotle doth vse both the words indifferently, as signifying the same thing, in his Preface to the Metaphysicks and first Chapter.
The word art fignifies, a multitude of Precepts, orderly digested and approved by vse. And, thus the Iesuites teach in their Preface, q. 6. art. 2. and Aristotle hath the same thing in his Preface to the Metaphysicks and first Chapter. Where, wee haue these words; Art is gotten by experience, experience makes art. Art is made, when as one vniversall thing, is framed out of many experimentalls: so as, to doe by experience, differs nothing from art. He brings the same thing, and the reason of it, Poster lib 2. cap. 19.
The word [An] is vsed to shew, 6 that Logick is one intire art, that cannot be divided, nor is subordinate to any other art, as Geometry, and many other arts be. Logick is usually called, the art of arts, the mistris and director of all other: and, there is good cause why, for, Logick disputeth of all things, and is common vnto every being, as Aristotle hath taught vs in the fourth booke of his Metaphysicks, cap. 2. text 4. Experience sheweth, that Aristotle sayd true, for, there is no art, but by [Page 6]the helpe of Logick, all the precepts thereof are framed together, in a due order, and the parts of each singular precept, are so fitted together, that we may finde truth from falshood.
[Of discoursing] These words, 7 doe assigne the speciall nature of Logick, the very first, and intrinsecall being thereof, and containe the forme, and the end: (I say) they containe them both, because the forme is the fountaine of the end, and the end is the continuation of the forme; as wee shall see hereafter.
The end of Logick, is
- Next.
- Remote.
The remote end of Logick, is the very act it selfe of discoursing: but, wee speake not of this end of Logick in the present definition. The next end of Logick, is to prescribe a way, and rules of discoursing; so as the end of Logick, is a framing of the meanes of discoursing; so say the Iesuites in their Comment vpon Aristotles Organon, and the Preface [Page 7]thereto, Col. 27.55. So, likewise saith Gillius, lib. 1. Tra. 1. cap. 6. n o. 4. The art of Logick delivereth wayes, and rules of discoursing.
8 [To discourse] (As it is here used) is to declare one thing that is lesse knowne, by another thing that is more knowne. This we haue in the Iesuites Preface col. 27. and 62. As for example, He that knowes not what a man is, is made to know it by saying a man is a reasonable Creature: the addition of rationalitie vnto man, shewes what man is. So likewise, when wee say, God is a spirit, infinite in all perfection; we informe him that is ignorant, and knowes not what God is. In this very thing, this art of Logick doth differ from all other arts whatsoever: for Logick ends in speculation, and proceedeth no further than to judge whether one thing be truly affirmed of another: all other arts, be practicall: they concerne mans outward or transient actions, as their next end: as, Grammar, and Rhetoricke tendeth vnto mans speech, Geometry vnto [Page 8]measuring, Arithmetick vnto numbering, &c. That art (saith Okam) is practicall, which directeth vs vnto the doing of a thing to be wrought, In 3. dist. q. 11. lit. V. Yea, in this, mans knowledge differs from the knowledge that is in God and the Angels: in that they behold the things in themselues, as they are in themselues, distinct each from other: they doe not know one thing lesse knowne, by the light and reflection of another thing, that is better knowne: wherefore their knowledge, is called intellection, ours is called rationalitie.
[Well] This word, 9 seemes (vnto some) to be superfluous; and, a man would thinke, that the Iesuites were of that opinion, because they define Logick, to be no more, but an art of discoursing, coll. 27. so Gillius, lib. 1. Tra. 1. cap. 6. n o. 4. yet, indeed, in other places, they haue as much as this word comes to: for, thus they writein their Preface the last question, col. 70. He is a good Logician, which doth exercise himselfe in each thing [Page 9]well, and diligently: and, Suarez doth joyne with them, in his Metaphysicks disp. 39. D. Logick (saith he) is an art, directing the operation of the vnderstanding, to exercise itselfe artifically, and according to reason. And all these Authors doe adde, that word to very good purpose; for, thereby Logick is distinguished from Sophistry, which is onely a deceiving science: A Sophister seemes to know, but indeede, knowes not, in the truth of the thing, as we learne from Aristotle, in his Metaphysicks, lib. 4. cap. 2. text. 4. And thus much shall suffice, for the opening of the severall parts of the definition of Logick.
That wee may put a finall end, 10 to the matter in hand, wee must remember, that the word discoursing, implyeth arguments, wherefore wee must now see what an argument is.
An argument is that, Ramus. which hath a force to argue.
Altissidiorensis saith in his Preface, 11 lit. F. an argument, is a reason, that giveth vs knowledge of a thing that is [Page 10]doubtfull: Aristotle saith, that, arguments are such, as whereby faith (Logically) may be made, of the thing that is spoken of. Poster. lib. 1. Cap. 22. Logicè igitur &c.
[That] This word importeth, 11 the generall nature of an argument (that is) the thing which is common to arguments of every kinde: and signifieth a notion, which our vnderstanding doth apprehend, a resultancy or reflection, proceeding from a being, obiected to our vnderstanding.
[Which hath a force to argue] That is, hath of its nature a power, aptitude, or fitnes, to bring the thing, obiected unto our understanding, into the knowledge, and intuition thereof. I omit to giue instance of these things, because, that will better be done in setting out the nature of particular Arguments: Wherefore, now, wee haue fully done, with the first precept of Logick; I will proceede to the second.
CHAP. II. The Distribution of Logick.
LOGICK hath two parts, the
-
Finding out of arguments.
Ramus.
- Disposing of arguments.
This precept must haue the second place: for, 1 the nature of the things themselues doth require it: because by this, we come to know, what particulars are wrapped vp in the former precept, and, Aristotle in the 6. Booke of his Topicks, and latter end of the first Chapter, requires, that, the thing defined, be distributed into parts: Ramus tooke this precept out of the second Chapter of Aristotles Categories, where wee haue these words: Those things, which are contained in Logick, bee
- without complexion.
- with complexion.
I sayd, 2 Ramus followed Aristotle in this partition, and, the thing it selfe shewes it; for, they both divide [Page 12] Logick, into two parts; The first part in Logick (according to Aristotle) are things without complexion: so are they, acording to Ramus, as his owne words doe witnesse, when he termes them, Seuerall respects of things, considered alone, and by themselues. Aristotle giues, his incomplexed things no name: but, thereby he meanes arguments, as they are vndisposed, as, his next precept doth shew, and, Ramus giues them that name expresly.
Ramus calls the first part of Logick invention: and, so doth Aristotle too, as wee may gather from the 32. chapter, of the first booke of his Priorums: Where, a little after the beginning, he requires, a facultie of inuenting, in him, that makes a Syllogisme: but, more plainly, and fully: we finde the same thing, in the first Chapter of the eight booke of his Topicks; To finde out (saith he) the place, from whence a man may argue, appertaines to Logick: therefore, vnto the first part of Logick, for it can haue no other place. [Page 13] Ramus calls, the second part of Logick, disposition. So doth Aristotle also, in the place last alleadged, where he requires of a Logician, to dispose singular things, by themselues: and, he saith, that, this disposition is proper to a Logician; and, therefore, belongs to Logick; and, consequently, it is a second part thereof: for, it cannot be the first: yea, that Aristotle meant thus, doth vndoubtedly appeare; because, he appoints his Logician, first, to finde out the places, from whence t [...] argue; and then, in the second place, to dispose them, being so found out.
[Two parts] That is, 3 the precepts of Logick, tend vnto two things, or ends: and, they be called parts, because, all those precepts be shared, or parted betweene these two ends: some of them appertaine to the one, and the rest vnto the other.
[Finding out] To finde out, sometime signifies, to discover a thing that is secret; but, here it is not so taken, but, the meaning is, that, the precepts of Logick, doe assigne the seates, and [Page 14]places of arguments, and describe, and set forth the nature of them: and so much for the generall Distribution of Logick.
CHAP. III. Of the seates of Arguments in generall.
Aristotle assigneth ten places, 1 or seates of arguments, in the fourth Chapter of his Categories: in these words:
Those things, which we finde in Logick, without all coniunction, doe signifie:
- 1 Substance; as, a man, a beast, &c.
- 2 Quantitie; as, two or three cubits.
- 3 Qualitie; as, white, &c.
- 4 Relation; as, double, halfe, &c.
- 5 Where; as, in the field, &c.
- 6 When; as, yesterday, the yeere past.
- 7 The place; as, he sitteth, &c.
- 8 To inioy; as, to be armed, &c.
- 9 Todoe; as, to cut, &c.
- [Page 15]10 To suffer; as, to be cut, &c.
He repeates the same doctrine in the ninth Chapter of his first booke of the Topicks; and in both places, he doth explicate them by certaine properties, that be common to them all ioyntly; viz. 1. They neither affirme, nor deny. 2. They be neither false, nor true. 3. A coniunction being added to them, they containe negation, or affirmation, truth, or falshood. 4. All propositions are framed from them.
In the fift Chapter of his Categories, 2 and in his Prior. lib. 1. cap. 27. Eorum igitur. Post. lib. 1. cap. 22. he doth divide them thus.
These ten, be
- Either, subiected onely.
- Predicated onely.
- Or, subiected, and predicated, also.
This distribution, is fitly set out by Altisiodore, in his Preface A. and B. Where, he hath these words:
An Argument, is that, which
- proveth:
- or is proved.
This is all, that I finde, touching arguments in generall.
Aristotle delivers the doctrine of Substance (which is the first seat of arguments) in the fift Chapter alledged, 3 which containeth these foure things:
- 1. A substance, is every thing, of which we may say, that, it is.
- We finde the same thing in Thomas, Whatsoever (saith he) is essentiall to a thing, appertaineth vnto substance, 1. p.q. 77. art. 1. ad 1 m.
- 2.
Substance is
- First: as every singular & individuall thing.
- Second: as Genus and species.
- 3. Genus, and species, signifie substances, by a figura [...]iue speech, not properly, they signifie, rather, the manner, according to which, a thing is.
- 4. A singular thing, is most properly, a substance; because, all other things, be attributed thereunto, and that, attributed vnto none.
Thus, haue I set downe, 4 all that I finde in Aristotle, touching the nature of those arguments, which are contained in the first place, or seat of arguments: (for this time we must omit the consideration of the second substance; for, that hath the last place in this first part of Logick) The first substance comes now to be handled: Thomas doth wholly subscribe vnto Aristotle, for this distinction, and explication of substance, reported out of Aristotle, and, he shewes the same, in this short sentence: viz In the name of first substance, is intended the nature of universall and parts. 1. p.q. 29. art. 3. ad 2 m. And, for further explication, he saith, 1. p. q 75. art. 2. ad 2 m. A first, or individuall substance, may be taken two wayes: one way, for every thing that hath a substance; another way, for a compleat subsistency, in the nature of any species: from whence, a mans hand may be called a first substance, or an individuall thing, after the first sort: but not after the second: so also, a mans soule, may be called a first [Page 18]substance, or a singular thing in the first sort: because, it is (as it were) a thing, that subsisteth: but, that which is compounded of soule, and bodie, is called, a first substance, or an individuall being, in the second sence.
Vnto this place, must be referred, every individual effect, as it consisteth by force of all the causes, and, every individuall subiect, that receiveth any outward change, whether it be by the substracting of something inioyed, or the receiving of something that is added.
The nature of these effects, and subiects, is delivered by Aristotle, in his tenth place, or seat of arguments, viz. of suffering. I say, they are contained there; for, in the judgement of Thomas. 1. p.q. 79. art. To suffer, is no more, but, to lose things inioyed, whether appertaining to nature, or not appertaining thereto, or, to be brought from power to act: and therefore, Aristotles tenth seat, of suffering, importeth the whole nature, of every individuall effect, and subiect, as it is an [Page 19]effect, and subiect. Now, I conceiue, that, this is wholy agreeable vnto Aristotles meaning; because, in his doctrine of predicated arguments, hee speakes not a word, of effects, and subiects.
This Doctrine is peculiar to Aristotle: 5 Ramus doth not acknowledge it; for, he hath not a word of it: It may bee, he conceived, that, 1. To set downe all the seats of arguments in one place together, would breed a needles repetition. 2. These single termes did not appertaine to Logick. 3. The first substance, or thing subiected, in every sentence, hath not the nature of an argument. It is very likely, that, he thought thus; because, this doctrine of Aristotle hath beene anciently receiued; therefore, hee would not depart from it vnles hee had some reason for it: and I conceiue, he had no reason, but these 3. I answer, these three arguments bee insufficient: The first, because Aristotle doth neuer repeat; or handle these ten seates of arguments twise: [Page 20]but, in stead of them sometime hee brings in the doctrine of a definition, Propertie, Genus, Accident, as the things, which are contained, in those ten seates of arguments: and, this wee finde in the 8. and 9. chapters of the first booke of his Topicks. Some other time, he sets out, the nature of other arguments: but, they are such, as are either, contained in these 4. or arise from them; and, (at most) hee doth but explicate at large, the same things, that he had set downe summarily, in the 10. places aforesaid.
Neither, 6 is the second reason good: for, those 10. things, are propounded, not as me [...]re and simple beings: but, in respect of that reflection, or relation which ariseth out of them, vnto our vnderstanding; for, he doth intend them, as they may bee fit to argue, and serue vnto the framing of disputations, either in single propositions, or in syllogismes, as himselfe expresly sheweth, in the 8. and 9. chapters alledged: and, this is also evident, by the properties which he assigneth [Page 21]vnto them: viz, They containe truth, or falshood, affirmation, or negation, when one of them is attributed to the other.
The third also is insufficient, 7 for the first substance, or subiect part of every sentence, hath truly, and properly, the nature of an argument, for, it hath a relation, or emanation vnto many things, that may be added, or attributed to it: so as, we conceiue it to be, a receptiue thing, 1. of the causes wherof it is compounded, and constituted. 2. of the properties flowing from it, 3. and of outward additions, whereby it is beautified and made to differ, and dissent from other, and whereby it is made equall, or vnequall, like or vnlike vnto others: as we shall playnly see, when we come to the particulars; and, it is plaine, that Aristotle vnderstood that argument, which he calls the first substance, after this sort: for, in the sayd 5 chapter of his Categories, he sayth, it is proper vnto the first substance to receiue contraries, as sicknes, and health, blacknes, and whitnes, and [Page 22]thereby to be changed, from well to ill, from white to blacke.
The onely doubt is, whether an individuall effect, and subiect bee some wayes predicated or not. Ramus sayth yea; and brings them as predicated arguments. Aristotle doth not so, and no doubt, he hath the truth. No indiuiduall effect, is predicated. I haue three reasons for it: first, we neuer find any such predication, in the formall writings in the schooles, 2. No man can say, this indiuiduall thing consisting of soule, and bodie, is this man: for, the predicate is lesse knowne then the subiect; The subiect engendreth distinct and certaine knowledge: because, it comprehendeth all the causes, but no man will say so, of the predicate, nor so much, 3. The authority of the schools is against it. I will alleadge Thomas for them all. An integrall whole (sayth he) 1. p. 1. 77. art. 1. ad 1 m. is not predicated of all the parts together, vnles improperly as when we say, these walls, this foundation, and roofe, is this [Page 23]house. For the subiect; the matter is yet more cleere, we cannot say, this learning, is this man. Thomas sayth truly 1. p. q. 29. art. 3. ad 3 m Accidents doe mans est the subiect: but hee neuer sayd, nor any man else, that, the subiect doth manifest the accident; and no maruaile why: for, if the subiect be predicated of the accident, then we must conceiue, that, the accident is without, and before the subiect: but no man will say so: therfore, we may conclude, the indiuiduall effect, and subiect, are fitly comprehended vnder the name of a first substance. Thus, I haue set downe, and explicated, the generall nature of arguments; and, the speciall nature of that argument, which is alwayes subiected or argued. In the next place, I come to those arguments, which be alway predicated.
CHAP. IIII. The distribution of predicated Arguments.
Arguments be
- Positiue
- Consenting
- absolutely.
Ramus.
- after a sort
- absolutely.
- Dissenting.
- Consenting
- Comparatiue.
A positiue argument, 1 is that which [...] attributed simply, and absolutely considered in it selfe: not compared with others.
A consenting argument is that, which is predicated of the subiect affirmatiuely.
I Finde this doctrine of positiue arguments, 2 deliuered by Aristotle also, and I will shew it in his doctrine of consenting arguments; in the second chapter of his Categortes, hee sayth, some arguments be of the subiect, and other some, in the subiect: those I say be [Page 25]in the subiect, which are no parts of it, nor can be without that thing in which they are. The same thing is taught by Thomas, yet more plainly, 1. p. q. 25. art. 6. In. cor. Some arguments (saith he) be of the essence, and other some, without the essence of the subtect, of which they are predicated. I say, this of Thomas, and that of Aristotle are the same, with the last two branches, of Ramus his division: or (at least) it is comprehended in them: for, those that be of the essence, doe absolutely agree with the subiect, of whose essence they be. They that be in the subiect, but without the essence therof doe agree to the subiect after a sort, seeing therefore, they agree in those two last branches, they must agree also in the former branches of the division: seeing, every argument that agrees absolutely, doth consent positiuely with the subiect, of which they be predicated; and consequently, it is enough to the vnderstanding of the whole, if we doe explicate, and prosecute, those two last branches: and, because I suppose, [Page 26]that the terms of Aristotle, and Thomas, be more significant, and fit, I thinke it best to follow them.
[Of the essence] By these words, 3 are set out such arguments as be essentiall vnto the thing, of which they are predicated: now, all the causes be of this kinde, for as much, as the effect is constituted by all the causes, as Thomas hath taught vs in 2. dist. 27. q. 1. art. 2. ad. 9 m. he saith the effect is constituted by all the causes, (that is) each one in its kind, and maner of working; for, all of them, doe concur, and bestow their force, vnto the procuring of the thing to be. These arguments be all comprehended in the 9. place of arguments viz. To doe.
CHAP. V. The Definition of a Cause.
THis argument, 1 which we call a Cause, is sometimes taken for every thing wherevpon another followes: and so saith Okam, 1. dist. 1. q. 3. lit. N. wherefore (as the same Okam sayth) 1. dist. 41. lit. F. A Cause is taken two wayes: Sometimes, for every thing that hath another thing, as an effect thereof; and, sometime also, for a proposition, whereof another doth follow: thus farre Okam.
A Cause in this place, is taken, not so largely, as in Okam [...] first and third senses: but, in the second. A Cause in this notion, is also taken for the thing it selfe which doth cause; and sometimes also, for the nature of Causing, or, for the thing, as it doth exercise Causallitie in act, or, for the relation of [Page 28]Causing: A Cause, is taken in the second sense, in this definition; wherefore, A Cause is that, of which the effect, even by it selfe dependeth. Thus farre the Iesuites in their Preface vnto Porphyrte.
By this it is manifest, that, Ramus, and Aristotle, doe fully agree in the defining of a Cause, and in the explication of that definition: therefore, we need not say more for the opening thereof; a few examples wil make it easily vnderstood; but, we may not doe that in this place, least we be forced to repeate the same thing againe, when we come to the particulars.
CHAP. VI. The Distribution of a Cause.
- Efficient, and Matter,
- Forme, and End.
THere is an vniversall agreement in this precept also. 1 Aristotle [Page 29]makes them these foure, as wee may finde, in the 11. chapter of the second booke of his Postertorums; his words be these: There be 4. Causes
- 1. That which sheweth what a thing is.
- 2. That which must be when the thing is.
- 3. That which moueth first.
- 4. That for which a thing is.
He hath the same thing in the fift booke of his Metaphysicks and 23 chapter. Thomas doth follow him, and doth teach the same things in 1 a. 2 a. q. 72. art. 3. in cor. and no man thinks otherwise: therefore, I will descend, to vnfold the nature of the particulars.
CHAP. VII. Of the Efficient Cause.
[Efficient] This word imports no more; 1 but, to doe, or to bring to passe: and, therefore, it signifieth, the office of all the Causes, and consequently, it seemes not fit to be given vnto any one Cause distinctly: yet notwithstanding, we must know, that there is good reason thus to call it; else, the learned of all ages would not haue giuen it that name; yea, the very nature of it deserues we should call it so: as we shall see in the next passage.
[From which] These words doe set out the nature, 2 or office of that Cause, which is called Efficient: and signifie the originall, or fountaine, from whence the effect doth receiue tts being. I say the effect, and I meane [Page 31]the whole effect: for, this Cause doth ioyne together all the other Causes, whereof the effect is compounded: as namely, it bestoweth the forme vpon the matter, and doth destinate the matter formed vnto the producing of something that is good: and therefore, it deserues well to be called Efficient. The forme doth make the effect to be of this, or that kinde: the matter formed, doth make the effect to be this, or that individuall thing: the end makes it fit for this or that good: but, the motion and efficacy of the efficient Cause onely, doth giue being vnto the effect in the event. Wee haue many examples of this Cause, and the operation thereof; we finde one in the second of Genesis, the seaventh verse, where it is sayd, ‘God formed man, of the dust of the ground, and breathed into him the breath of life, and he became a liuing soule.’
In this example, the making of man is attributed vnto God: therefore God is sayd to be the Efficient Cause of [Page 32]man: the office of this efficiency, is placed in ioyning the forme vnto the matter; he framed him of the dust, there is the matter, and breathed life into him, and thereby the forme is imposed on the matter, and then, God did destinate him to an end, viz. The actions of life, thereby he made him a living soule.
We haue another the like example in the 11. of Genesis, the 3. and 4. ver. where it is reported; that, ‘The men of the earth, did build a high tower of bricke, and slime; for a memoriall of their name.’
The men of the earth, are made the builders of the tower, and thereby they became the efficient cause of the whole worke: they take bricke, and frame it into a tower; therefore, they ioyne the matter and forme together: they destinate the same vnto an end; viz. the continuance of their name on earth. And, thus much shall suffice, to set out the nature of the efficient cause. Wee should now divide an efficient cause into the severall kindes; [Page 33]but, that we cannot: for (as Ramus truely sayes) they are vnknowne vnto vs, therefore we will set downe, the divers, and various manner, wherein the efficient cause doth worke: for that is well knowne, and doth helpe vs much, in the vnderstanding of the office of thus Cause.
The efficient cause doth worke,
- By it selfe.
- By accident.
A Cause doth then worke by it selfe, Ramus. when it worketh by force of, and according vnto the inbred fitnesse thereof.
We finde this distinction, 3 and the explication thereof, in the Schooles of all ages. The efficient cause (sayth Thomas) workes, by it selfe, or by accident; the first is, when it moneth by its owne proper vertue: The second, when something is remoued therefrom, or that which remaines, is hindred from working, 1 a. 2 [...]. q. 76. art. 1. in cor. If wee ioyne Okam vnto Thomas, wee shall finde this matter fully opened; A Cause by accident (sayth Okam. 1. dist. 2. q. 10. lit. B. H.) is that, which [Page 34]worketh by a thing different from it selfe, and a cause, which workes by it selfe is that, which causeth the effect according to its proper nature, and not according to some other thing, which outwardly doth befall it.
The efficient doth worke by it selfe, in naturall things, when it moues according vnto the instinct, and inbred disposition of nature: as when the living Creature seeth, eateth, sleepeth, avoydeth knowne danger. The plants grow vpright, bring forth leaues, and fruit, in due season; So doth it worke by it selfe in the intellectuall creature, when man moues himselfe vnto doing, by the direction of true reason, and the vnrestrained, and free choyse of the will.
Naturall things doe worke by accident, when the instinct of nature is suppressed, or diverted. The intellectuall creature workes by accident, when the iudgement of reason is erronious, and the choyse of the will, carried by a previall over-ruling power, and all these doe fall out, in case, [Page 35]where nature meets with defection. The vnderstanding is possessed with ignorance, or the will haled by the naughtinesse of corruption, and violence of temptation. Lastly, the secret providence of God (which the Heathen called fortune) makes the creature work by accident: in all Cases when he workes against meanes, as he did, when he brought the people through the red Sea, Exodus the 14. and, as he doth in all miracles; or when man intendeth one thing, but another thing comes to passe: of this, we haue an example in the 45. of Genesis, and 5. vers. & 37. & 27. verse. In this place, they are sayd to sell Ioseph, because they would be rid of him; and, in that, Ioseph sayth, God sent him into Aegypt, to preserue their liues. They were the efficient Cause of their owne preserving, when they sold Ioseph; but, yet by accident, through Gods secret providence, that wrought contrary to their intent. The Iewes, likewise, were the Cause of Christs glory, and mans salvation, [Page 36]when they delivered him to death; but, yet by accident, because God himselfe did create light out of darknesse, and made their evill intention, serue vnto that good. There be many examples, wherein wee finde, that, the efficient cause doth worke on this manner: but these are enough, for this present.
4 The efficient doth worke
- Physically,
- Morrally.
This distinction, is received in all the Logick schooles, and, is of frequent vse, in the question touching sanctification, and the actuall motion of grace, in mans conversion: the Reader may find it in Suarez opusc. 1. lib. 3. cap. 10. no. 1. and in many other places. A Physicall operation, is a reall influence into the effect, we haue an example of this in mans creation: He formed him, and that of the dust, and poured life into him, all these be reall influences: of this kinde, [Page 37]are the builders of the Tower of Babell, they made bricke, and reard a building with bricke, and stone: Of this sort, be all workemen that labour with their hands, and tooles, the strength of nature, doth immediatly flow into the thing that is wrought, making a reall and sensible change in the matter where on they worke.
A morall worke, is a motion offered to the vnderstanding, and serues to allure, and draw it on with reasons, and perswasion. Of this kinde, bee be all such things, as be obiected to the vnderstanding, as namely, the testimonie of God, and man, by commanding, forbidding, promising, threatning, perswading, therefore, so often as wee finde, any of these attributed to God, or man, wee are to know, that then they are efficient causes, that worke morally.
Ramus doth call Testimonies, Exhortations, Commandements, &c. inartificiall arguments, because, they argue, not of their owne force, but, by the authoritie of him that doth testifie: [Page 38]but, this is altogether vnfitly spoken, for inartificiall, and argument, implyes a contradiction, if inartificiall, then no argument; if an argument then artificiall, for an argument is a member of Art. 2. These things themselues are no arguments, vnlesse they be referred vnto the Testator, but then they argue as properties or adjuncts, and otherwayes they are never attributed to any subject. In this place affirmation, perswasion, &c. are not brought as morall causes in themselues: but the causalitie is referred to him that affirmeth, perswadeth &c. which makes it very plaine, that, they belong to this place or seat of arguments. God, and his servants, are the morall causes of mans holines, when they command good, and forbid ill, when they promise good, and threaten ill, when they perswade vnto obedience, and disswade from sinne, thus our Saviour Christ is the morall cause of all supernaturall things, when by his obedience, he deserved, that God should bestow [Page 39]them vpon vs, he by meriting (I say) is the morall cause of Gods gifts, because by his merits hee moveth God to bestow them: and so much shall suffice for this distinction.
5 A Physicall efficient is
-
Principall
- first,
- second,
- Instrumentall.
This distinction is very ancient in the schooles; and of great vse, when we desire to know, how mans will is wrought vpon, and worketh with the actuall motion of Gods grace; Alvarez received it from Thomas, and makes vse of it. disp. 68. no. 5. &c. where, hee doth thus describe each member of it.
A principall efficient is that, which worketh out of its owne power, or forme, as Thomas sayth, 1. p. q. 18. art. 3. in cor. A first principall efficient, is that which worketh onely, out of its owne power. Thus God only worketh, [Page 40]of whom it is sayd, hee sitteth in Heaven, and doth what he will.
He is the vniversall cause: for in him we liue, and mone, and haue our being.
A second principall efficient is that, which is so moved by another, that it moveth it selfe, by a power of its owne. Of this sort is mans mind, which is moved by God, yet neverth lesse it worketh out of an actiue beginning, remaining in it selfe, Of this sort, be all those sayings in the Scripture, which attribute mans good workes, as his conversion, and the like, sometimes, vnto God alone, and other sometimes, vnto man alone.
An instrument (properly taken, 6 and so we speake of it here) is that, which worketh onely out of a power received from the principall efficient, of this kinde are all instruments without life, as namely the tooles of a Carpenter, or Smith, &c: Thus hot water, heateth another thing that is cold, by the heate received from the fire.
To conclude, the point touching [Page 41]the efficient cause, wee are to know, that, the efficient, Ramus. alwayes worketh after one of these waies, whether it works alone, or with others, whether it begins the worke, or preserues it, being alreadie made.
CHAP. VIII. The matter, Ramus. is a Cause of which a thing is.
[Matter.] This word is often times vsed to set out every bodily substance: 1 but it is not so taken in this place, for (as Thomas sayth, 1. p. q. 7. art. 1. in cor.) The matter (as it is a matter) remaineth onely in power, or capacitie to receiue many formes: and therefore, according to it selfe hath no being, nor can be obiected to our vnderstanding: 1. p. q. 15. art. 3. ad 3 m. In this place it signifies a bodily substance informed, or some intellectuall thing answerable vnto that.
[A cause] These words doe attribute an actiue power, and actuall efficacy vnto the matter, wherby the effect is produced.
[Of which] These words shew the nature of that efficacy, and the maner how the matter doth concurre vnto the effect: and importeth the thing that so receiues the forme, that it resteth and remaineth in it. This we see in an house, wherin the timber, stone &c. are framed, and fashioned together, and made fit for habitation: so doth a peece of timber receiue the picture made vpon it by a carver.
[A thing is] By [thing] is meant the effect produced: by [Is] is meant essentially, so as, the matter is a part of the essence viz. in a second degree, or notion. Wee conceiue the timber &c. Of a house to be a part of it: but we know, that there is an other part therof more principall before that: namely, the forme & fashion thereof. A thing, signifies an individuall effect, so as, the office of the matter is to bring the effect vnto asingular, [Page 43]or individuall being: thus all Philosophers doe conceiue of it. The matter is the principium of individuation, saith Thomas. 1. p. q. 86. art. 3. in cor. And againe, the essence is restrained vnto one individuall thing by the matter. 1. p. q. 7. art. 3. in cor.
We haue an instance of this, in every singular creature. Peter, is a singular man by his body, every plant, is singular by the stem that groweth vp; for they inioy all other things in common with therest of their kinds. The soule of Peter hath the same rationalitie with all other mens soules: no singular tree differs from other trees in vegititie. Sanctitie makes men christians: Peters sanctitie makes Peter a christian, because the holy Ghost dwels in his mortall body.
This argument brings the subiect to which it is attributed, vnto our cleere vnderstanding, and it is of singular vse, to make vs know the nature and distinction of particular beings.
Yea, of absolute necessitie: for (that I may vse the words, and reason of Aristotle. [Page 44]Meta. Lib. 2. Cap. 1 text. 11) It is not possible to know vntill wee come vnto indiuidualls. It is impossible to know vntill we ataine vnto those things which doe not admit division: for things that are infinite cannot possibly be comprehended by our vnderstandings. We haue a pregnant example of it in the 1. Cor. 15.39 &c. Where, the Apostle doth describe, and destinguish diuers kinds of singular bodies, and saith, some be celestiall, as the Sunne, Moone, and stars. Other some be terrestriall, and those be spirituall, as mans body that is raysed: other some be naturall, viz the flesh of men, beasts and birds: and from hence he deliuers the nature and difference of glory that these particular beings doe inioy. Likewise, the holy Ghost Reuel. 21 18. &c. Makes vs know, what the new Ierusalem is, by the matter thereof. The examples of this kinde are very frequent, and well knowne to every man; therefore, I take this to be sufficient for the explication of the materiall cause.
CHAP. IX. Of the formall Cause.
[Forme.] As I sayd of the matter, 1 so must I say of the forme: If it be considered in it selfe, abstracted from all matter, and individualitie, it is a certaine thing common vnto many: so Thomas truly sayth, 1. p. q. 7. art. 1. in cor. 2. Vnder the name forme, sometimes is comprehended a figure, which consisteth in the termination of a quantitie. This also I haue from Thomas. 1. p. q. 7. art. 1. ad 2 m. But wee take not this word, at this time, in either of these sences. By forme then wee here vnderstand, the intrinsicall part of the compounded effect: so sayth Suarez, meta. disp. 10. sect. 1. n o. 7. that is, Received of the matter, informing the same: Thus saith Thomas. 1. p. q. 7. art. 1. in cor.
- [Page 46] A forme (saith Thomas) is Generall. 2
- A forme (saith Thomas) is Speciall.
A speciall forme is that which informs the subiect, but it selfe is not informed by any other forme of the same nature: as one colour is not informed by another colour, 2. dist. 27. q. 1. art. 2. ad 1 m. Forme in this place, is taken in the second sence, not in the first. Wee haue an example of this, in the rationalitie of man, and vigiditie of plants: both of them are formes, and distinct beings, not receiving any thing from other formes of their kinde.
[Is a Cause] (That is) it hath actuall exercised force to inferre the effect. 3
[By which] These words doe shew, 4 that, the force of the forme, is not receptiue, nor retentiue, nor restrictiue, as the force of the matter is: but it is actiue: for (as Aristotle saith, Meta. lib. 9. cap. 6. text 17.) The forme is an act; (that is) an actuall, determinate, and actiue being: the Reader may see this matter fully opened by Gillius. col. 467.
[A thing is] By these words, 5 the essence of every individuall effect, is attributed to the formall cause: every thing that doth actually exist (saith Thomas, 1. p. q. 7. art. 2. in cor.) hath some forme; and againe, every being is caused by the forme thereof. 1. p. q. 51. art. 4. in cor.
[That which.] 6 These words doe attribute the whole effect vnto the forme: and this is agreed vpon by the learned in all ages. Each thing is that which it is, by its forme: thus Thomas thinketh, 1. p. q 5. art. 5. & ad 3 m. in cor. The whole compound is the effect of the forme; in the iudgement of Okam. 1. dist. 32. q. 1. & 2. lit. C. And this sentence agrees well with the nature of the thing: for, the matter doth finite, and contract the amplitude of the forme, and thereby it becomes the determinate forme of this, or that individuall effect. The forme, on the other side, doth perfit and determine the matter, and bring it, from power, to act, by giuing an essence thereunto: in so much, that, by the forme the essence is termined [Page 48]vnto some speciall kinde. And thus much wee receiue from Thomas. 1. p. q. 7. art. 1. et 3 in cor. q. 14. art. 2. ad 1 m.
This argument is of necessary vse, 7 to instruct our vnderstandings in the knowledge of the subiect, to which it is attributed: for, how can we know a thing more cleerely, and certainely, then when wee finde the intrinsicall, primary, and proper nature, and being thereof. It is all one saith Aristotle 2. post. cap. 8. to know the nature of a thing, and to know the cause of its nature. Wee haue examples of this kinde of Cause, in the word of God, and the nature of the Creature: when God would shew vs what sinne is, he doth set it out by the forme thereof. Sinne (sayth the Apostle Iohn 1. Epist. chap. 3. v. 4.) Is a varying from the Law: The Apostle Paul, when he would set out, what the righteousnesse of faith is, he doth describe it (in his Epistle to the Romans ch. 4. v. 6.7.8.) by forgiuenesse of sinnes. The holy Ghost doth yeeld vs many of these examples, but these shall suffice.
In man we haue a full representation of every part of this Argument. 8 Wee say, rationalitie is the formall cause of man. Now, 1. Rationalitie is the intrinsecall part of man, all other of his parts, are more overt, and better knowne. 2. Rationalitie hath a force to bestow a being vpon man: for, when God had drawne together the dust of the earth, man had not (as then) his being: but, he receiued that, when God breathed the breath of life into it: at that time (I say) and not before, man became a liuing soule. 3. Rationalitie bestowes vpon man a being, that is actuall, and determined vnto one, and actiue; whereby he is fit to doe the actions of life. 4. There is nothing essentiall vnto man; but his rationalitie bestowes it on him: The body (indeed) doth make him a singular man, by retaining, and contracting the soule vnto one: but, in what respect he is a man, that he receiues wholy from his soule, and from hence, the forme is truely sayd to be the beginning of difference, that is hetweene [Page 50]one and another, and not the difference it selfe. Thom. 1. dist. 25. q. 1. art. 1. ad 2 m. I say, the difference of things doth flow from the forme: for, as vnitie in substance doth make two things to be the same, as Okam doth truely teach, 1. dist. 19. q. 1. lit. B. opinio 1 a. and Aristotle, meta. lib. 5. cap. 15. text. 20. so difference in substance makes two things to differ. The forme is not the difference it selfe: for, a forme is a subsistence in an vnitie: but, a difference is a dissenting betweene the essence of two: and thus much for the explication of the formall Cause.
CHAP. X. Of the finall Cause.
[End] By end is meant the last notion which wee haue of the effect: 1 [Page 51]and importeth that whereunto the thing tendeth. So Aristotle telleth vs, meta. lib. 2. cap. 1. text. 9.
An end is
- Externall.
-
Internall, In
- The intent of the doer. 2
-
The thing it selfe
- naturally
- Imposed.
An externall end, is the actuall vse of the thing, to which the effect is fitted. Thus the beatificall vision is mans end, to which he tends. An end in the intent of the doer, is no more but either the fitnes (it selfe) of the effect thought vpon, and purposed by the efficient; (this is the condition of every workman, that deviseth and resolueth vpon the fashion, and forme of the thing to be wrought) Or the commoditie of the workman, and others, sought thereby.
Wee haue example of an end, thus vnderstood, in those words of Iohn 3.16. God so loued the world &c. Where the giving of Christ is an effect, wrought by God, wherein he intended the glory of himselfe, and his [Page 52]sonne, and the salvation of the predestinate. Thus the workman that makes an axe intends, that himselfe shall get reputation, and maintenance thereby.
An end of a thing imposed vpon it is, when the efficient inioyned that vse of it, which the thing it selfe doth not yeeld, and this end we finde in lawes, and mony; the one is appointed to be a rule of obedience, the other to set a price of wares. I say appointed by him that hath power to doe it, the things themselues doe not yeeld it; as all men doe know by experience. But the word end in this place doth not signifie either of these foure things.
3 The end (as it is in the intent and will of the doer) is a cause indeed metaphorically, not properly, and must be reduced vnto the efficient not the finall: for, in that sort it doth but moue, and indu [...]ice principall efficient vnto working: and consequently, it is an efficient that workes morally.
That and vnto which the effect tendeth naturally, 4 is here vnderstood, and [Page 53]defined. I haue receiued all these things from Thomas 2. dist. q. 1. art. 1 2. & 3. 1. p. q. 26. art. 3. ad 2 m. Suarez de praedest lib. 2. cap. 3. no: 2. vega in Concil. Trident lib. 7. cap. 2.
[A cause] Therfore the end hath an actiue, and an exercised act, 5 in the producing of the effect: for, that is the propertie of every cause, as hath beene shewed.
[For which a thing is] These words set out the nature of that force: 6 and they signifie, a tendency, aptitude, and fitnes which the effect hath naturally, vnto something without it selfe. It is of the nature of a finall cause (sayth Okam) actually to intend: and whatsoeuer doth not so, is not truly, and properly a finall cause in Prologo. 1. sent. q. 11. lit. F.G. In the same sort writes Aristotle meta. lib. 2. cap. 1. text. 8. An end (sayth he) is that for which a thing is made, that is, whose essence is not so for another, that it followes that other: but, the essence of another followes that.
If any inquire how tendency &c. 7 can haue an actuall exercise vnto doing. [Page 54]First I answer it can, because that tendency flowes from the forme, in as much as the forme doth determine the effect vnto an end, according to its owne proportion: as the forme of steele is such, as best fitteth with cutting. Thomas. 1 a. 2 e. q. 95 art. 3. in cor. Secondly, the end importeth some good so saith Thomas. 1. p. q 19. art. 1 ad. 1 and all men grant it: therfore it hath an exercised force to constitute, but herein it differs from the form that doth constitute good & no more: this doth both constitute, and diffuse good: It doth constitute, in as much as, it is the perfection of the effect. I say the perfection of it, because, when the effect hath attained thi her it wanteth nothing requisite to a thing of that kind. It is diffusiuely good, in as much as, it is fit, and apt to bestow good vpon others.
Wee haue many examples that shew vs the nature of this argument. Fitnes to rule the day and night is attributed to the Sunne, and Moone Genesis. 1.14. As a thing that followed their nature by creation: thus also, fitnes to accompany [Page 55]and help Adam is affirmed of Evah Genesis. 2.18.21. as the end of her creation. Man is apt, and fit to loue the knowne good, and that is his end; this fitnes floweth from his reasonable soule or formall being, whose propertie it is to judge truly, and choose freely. Now this fitnes hath a maine stroake in the constituting of man, not by the way of motion, for that belongs to the efficient, nor by the way of reception, and retention: for, that belongs to the matter: but, by the way of setled position as the forme doth from whence it floweth. 2. By this fitnes a man is made a perfit, and compleat humane creature: for, when he attaines vnto that, he wants nothing requisite vnto his being. Vntill he be so fitted, we cannot conceiue him a humane creature: for, he would differ nothing from bruit beasts.
The vse of this argument is of exceeding worth, 8 to informe our vnderstandings in the knowledge of the subiect: for, by it we know the formall [Page 56]cause, and consequently the nature of the thing.
To conclude the doctrine of all the causes ioyntly; we must not forget, that, from this place, or seat of arguments is deriued knowledge, simply so called. We are then thought to know a thing, when we vnderstand the causes therof, thus saith Ramus. And to the same effect speaks Aristotle, knowledge simply so called (saith he) poster. lib. 1. cap. 4. is necessary, that is, when the thing cannot be otherwise then as we know it: and we haue that knowledge, when we vnderstand the causes: so saith the same Aristotle. Poster. lib. 2. cap. 11. Thomas also hath the same thing: knowledge (saith he) opusc. de demonst. cap. 1. is to vnderstand of certainty, and we doe so when we vnderstand the causes of the thing, and that, both as it is a cause, and also as it is a cause in act, of that thing: and he giues a reason hereof, Opusc. 48. de Syllog. cap. 1. viz. Then our reason doth resolue the thing caused into its causes: from whence knowledge doth flow. And thus much [Page 57]for the finall cause, and all those arguments which are predicated of the essence of the subiect, and which consequently doe absolutely agree therewith.
CHAP. XI. Of Properties.
VVE must now prosecute those arguments which import things without the subiect, and consequently consent with it, after some sort: of this kinde, be all adiuncts, as some doe call them.
An adiunct is that to which something is subiected, Ramus.and whatsoever doth externally belong, or happen to any subiect.
An adiunct is
- Proper.
- Common.
A proper adiunct is that which belongs vnto all, & alone, & alwaies.
[Page 58]A common adiunct is that which is not proper in that sort.
Aristotle dissents from Ramus in these precepts: 1 Thomas sayth, 1. p. q. 77. art. 1. ad 5 m. Not every thing that is without the essence, may be called an accident: Aristotle hath not the termes of proper and common adjunct; nor the thing comprehēded vnder them; but the contrary; he sayth Top. lb. 1. Cap. 5. An accident cannot be proper, otherwise then by relation; as when one sit [...]eth and others stand, then sitting is proper to him. Lastly, Aristotle and others with him doe make a thing proper and an accident to differ formally, as we shall presently finde.
Aristotle teacheth, 2 Top. lib. 1. cap. 5. that, Arguments which are without the subiect, be properties and accidents. That is sayd to be proper, that is reciprecall with the thing, but yet doth not declare the essence, nor come into the definition thereof. And of these he sayth also Top. lib. 5. cap. 1. They are properties by themselues alwayes, and doe separate, and distinguish from all other [Page 59]things. Porphyrie also doth distinguish and describe these arguments as Aristotle doth. A propertie (saith he cap. 4.) is that which doth concurre vnto all onely, and alwayes. And againe, cap. 9. A property is that which is in the whole kinde to which it is proper, and onely, and alwayes, so as, if that speciall kinde be taken away, presently the propertie thereof is taken away also. And Thomas doth so set out the nature of this argument, that he giues a reason of all this alledged out of Aristotle, and Porphyrie. A thing proper, sayth he. 1 p q 77. art. 1. ad 5 m. is not of the essence, but is caused by the essentiall principles of the species.
Aristotle, 3 and Porphyrie giues instance of properties, in this sentence.
In this proposition, aptnes vnto laughing, and Grammar-learning, is predicated of man: This aptnes floweth from his reasonable soule, and that is the principall thing in his nature. [Page 60]I say it floweth therefrom, not as a Contingent motion, but as a naturall emanation; therefore, this aptnes agrees vnto all men, onely, and alwayes. No man wants it, none but man hath it, and all men haue it alwaies, and consequently it is proper vnto man, and proper by it selfe, and the nature thereof, and not made proper by any outward efficient, so as in necessary consecution it is convertible with man: we may truly argue thus, If man, then apt vnto Grammar skill. If apt vnto Grammar skill, then man.
An accident sayth Aristotle, 4 Top. lib. 1. cap. 5. is neither definition, Genus, nor a propertie, and is in the thing: but so as that it may be, and may not be, in one and the same thing: and Porphyrie recites the same in his fift Chapter; Thomas also in the place last alledged, doth so set out the nature of an accident, that he giues also a reason of Aristotles Doctrine: An accident (sayth he) is onely that, which is without the subiect, and not caused by the essentiall [Page 61]principles thereof. Now, this doctrine of Aristotle is certainely true: therefore we ought to leaue Ramus and follow him. I say it is certainly true, that there be some things proper, that be not accidents: namely, all naturall actions, as the act of seeing, is proper to all living creatures: the act of discoursing to man: The bearing of leaues, and fruit to plants: and the outward workes of holinesse, vnto him that hath the habit of holinesse. These are proper, because they are necessary emanations, from nature in the one, and grace in the other: so as, when all requisite circumstances be present, man cannot but see, and worke, the plants cannot but bring forth fruit, and leaues: wherefore, the holy Ghost doth thus reason; ‘He that doth righteousnesse is righteous. 1. Iohn. 3.7.’
Where the holy Ghost doth necessarily ioyne righteous actions, vnto a man that is habituated with righteousnesse, as proper vnto him.
Properties be not adjuncts: 5 for, adiuncts doe out wardly befall the subiect: and so much the word importeth, and Ramus expresly affirmeth. Properties doe not outwardly befall the subiect: but, they are necessary emanations from the principles of nature: Heat, and light doe not outwardly befall the Sunne, and fire: neither doth swimming of timber in the water, outwardly befall the same: & such is the condition of properties.
To this seat or place of arguments, 6 the other seven, set downe by Aristotle, must be referred: viz. Quantitie, Qualitie, Relation, Where, When, The place, To inioy. For, all of them doe outwardly befall the subiect, and are not caused by the principles of nature; as a little labour will shew; for, Quantitie imports no more, but Geometricall measure, or Arithmeticall number. Qualitie signifies the manner, how a thing existeth, or worketh. Relation is no more, but the reference, or respect of one thing to another. Where importeth the generall [Page 63]place, wherein the subiect is, as in this, or that Country. When expresseth the time, and duration, as this yeare, this moneth, &c. The place signifies the particular place, as this stoole, this chayre, &c. To inioy signifies all indowments, as Honour, Riches, Clothes, &c
Some man (perhaps) will require me to set out the nature of quantitie, 7 and the rest: and alledge Aristotles authoritie for it. I answer, that ought not to be done in this place; for, that belongs to other Arts, as to Geometry, Arithmeticke, naturall and morall Philosophy. This place requires no more, but that I shew, what force there is in them, to bring the knowledge of the subiect, that receiues them, into our vnderstanding; and that I haue done partly alreadie, and will make it more plaine, and full by that which followes.
Porphyrie, 8 cap. 5. doth divide an accident into
- separable; as sleepe to a man.
- inseparable; as blacknesse to a Crow.
And Ramus followes him.
Aristotle hath not this division; yet it may be allowed, because, it is true, and vsefull. Blacknes to a Crow is an accident: for, a white Crow, is no lesse a Crow then a blacke one, it is inseparable by Gods appointment. Wee may truly say, this division is vsefull: for, the holy Ghost doth vse it; from vnseparable accidents he doth argue thus. Ier. 13.23. The Aethiopian cannot change his skin, nor the Leopard his spots, no more can he leaue his sinne, that is accustomed to doe evill.
Separable accidents are alway of singular vse, 9 and doe aboundantly serue, to lead our vnderstandings into the knowledg of the subiects, vnto which they are attributed. If we take them as they are in themselues, and in that coniunction which is between them and the subiect, then they are but light, and of small force to set out the thing we know not: but because many of them doe meet together in one subiect, therfore their number together makes amends for their weaknes [Page 65]severally: yet, none of them are so weake severally, but that they doe certainly leade vs to know the outward qualitie, and condition of their subiect, for learning, Riches, beautie, &c. doe vndoubtedly argue their subiects to be learned, rich, and beautiful, and therby we know the condition, which the subiect that receiveth them doth inioy, and how they differ from others, that want riches, learning, or beauty: therefore, the holy Ghost doth so often vse this kinde of argument, and then most chiefly, when he would set out his most beloved obiect. By this argument the spouse is described: Can. 5.10.11.12 My loue is white, ruddie &c. By this argument also, Goliath is set out 1. Sam. 17.4.5.6. &c. Then came a man named Goliath of Gath. &c. To conclude, such force is in this argument, that we doe certainly and distinctly know therby, one man from another, and what reuerence, honor, and respect ought to be giuen to this rather then to that: and thus Aristotle [Page 66]doth vrge it Top. lib. 1. cap. 5 adiungantur autem.
Thus are we come to an end of all the positiue consenting arguments: 10 and that we may conclude them all ioyntly, we are to know, that hitherto is to be referred all kinde of vnitie or identitie: Ramus.I shall not neede to bestow much labour to shew it: for the thing it selfe is evident, there is nothing wherein one man can be the same with another, vnles it be in things essentiall, or without the essence. It is a ruled case in the Schooles, Two things are the same Generally, Specially, Numerically, Top. lib. 1. cap. 7. but this differs nothing from that, and both of them containe an vndoubted truth: Two men are the same generally, because both of them haue a living soule, two men are the same specially, because they haue a reasonable soule, both of them are one numerically, because each of them haue a bodie, flesh, and bones. Two men are the same in riches, health, &c. because they are both rich, and in health.
In the next place we come to dissenting arguments.
CHAP. XII. Of Diversitie.
RAMVS hath this sentence out of Aristotle, 1 to Differ (sayth Porphyrie) in a common sence, is no more, but by a varietie to be distant some wayes or other: so as, a thing is sayd to differ after this sort from it selfe, or from another: and we finde the substance here of delivered by Aristotle. Top. lib. 1. Cap. 16.
[Dissenting] This word importeth, 2 the name of those arguments which belong to this place, and they may very fitly be so called, because the nature of them doth agree thervn to.
[Dissenteth] This word comprehends the generall nature of all the arguments which belong to this place, (I say) the generall nature, because arguments doe dissent more waies then one: and it signifieth a distancy, arising from a varietie as Prophyrie hath fitly expressed it: for, we say those things are distant each from other, that are severed by a space, or some bodily substance that is betweene them: and this space is the varietie, or variousnes that is betweene seuerall, and distinct arguments: As riches is a barre, that comes betweene a rich man and pouertie: by reason whereof pouertie dissenteth from him that hath riches.
[From the thing it argueth] This sheweth the terms of this variation, 4 namely, the subiect and the predicate the argument arguing and the argument argued, as for example: Health is an argument arguing, and this dissenteth fom a man that is sic'ke, by reason of that distance, or variation, which ariseth from sicknes: Sicknes [Page 69]doth make such a difference in a sick man from him that hath health, that, that health can no wayes be affirmed of him, therfore saith Porphyrie. chap. 3. Every difference makes a thing various, when it is ioyned thereunto.
These kindes of arguments serue to refell error, and the vse, 5 is very needfull. To know what a thing is, hath the first place, and to know what a thing is not, ought to haue the second: for, by the one our knowledge is begun, and by the other our knowledge is confirmed: we are sure our knowledge is true, when we vnderstand that the thing is no other then as we know it, from whence also it followes that these arguments belong to Logick, seeing we may be truly said to know what we knew not, when wee are confirmed in our knowledge.
To conclude, when wee say these arguments doe leade vs to the knowledge of the subiect, we meane, the qualitie not the essence thereof; They shew what maner of thing it is: not of what nature it is: so sayth Aristotle [Page 70]Top. lib. 6. cap. 6. Every difference (sayth he) declares after what manner a thing is. We shall see the truth hereof in the particulars following; and thus much shall suffice, touching dissenting arguments in generall.
Ramus. Dissenting arguments are
- divers.
- opposits.
This precept divideth dissenting arguments, 6 into their severall kindes. Ramus did not invent it; Porphyrie, cap. 3. hath it plainely: Difference (saith he) is by accident, or by it selfe: and Aristotle hath the same thing plaine enough, Top. lib. 6. cap. 6. Considerare, &c. But more plainely, Top. lib. 1. cap. 16. where he makes the distancy of arguments to be some great, some small. Wee shall shew the sence hereof, when we come to the particulars.
We haue this precept (also) in Arist [...]l [...]; 7 a difference by accident (sayth [Page 71] Porphyrie) cap. 3. Is that which is not essentiall, nor makes the things that differ, to be another: but divers. And Aristotle implies the same in both the places last alledged. In Top. 6. cap. 6. (he saith) a difference by accident is in, and is not in, the thing from which it differs: therefore (according to him) their difference standeth in some respect onely. In Top. lib. 1. cap. 16. he sheweth that difference which he saith is small, in the example of sence and science. Now all men know that the difference betweene these two, is respectiue onely, not simply, and really.
Aristotle giues instance of these arguments in Iustice and Fortitude, 8 prudence and temperance, Top. lib. 1. cap. 16. Now, these doe differ, because we conceiue this man that hath the one, differs from him that hath not that, but another: they differ from the subiect which they argue, but in some respect onely, namely, through the present condition thereof, because the subiect inioyeth one of them: but not the rest.
I make it manifest by this sentence: ‘Socrates is temperate, but not iust, nor prudent.’
Here, Iustice and prudence dissent from Socrates, onely, in respect of his present condition, and because he hath them not: this disagreement that is betweene the subiect, and the predicate, viz. Man, and prudence, makes a diversitie betweene them, and no more. For, a iust man may also be prudent, and a prudent man is not another man, from him that is Iust.
We haue examples of these arguments very often, we say in our English Proverbe, This man is at ods with his wits; and we meane by it, his wit, and he differs, onely, because he wants it.
In the same sort it is sayd, ‘Vlysses was fayre, but not eloquent.’
Where, cloquence differs from Vlysses, onely, in respect, that he had it not: for, otherwise it agreed with him no lesse then beautie; he might haue beene the one, as well as the other, [Page 73]notwithstanding the nature of himselfe, and that qualitie.
The vse of this kinde of argument is very behoofefull: for, hereby a man is shewed his error, that thinkes he hath much, when indeed he hath but little: Thus the holy Ghost argueth against the Church of Pergamus, Revel. 2.12.13.14. and 15.
So he argueth the Church of Thyatira, in the 19.20. and 21. Verses. And thus much shall suffice touching argumēts that differ from the subiect, of which they are predicated, after the manner of diversitie, and in some respect onely.
CHAP. XIII. Of Opposites.
1 WE haue this sentence in Aristotle, Top. lib. 1. Cap. 16. The difference (sayth he) which is in those arguments that be farre distant, or different is very conspicuous. This of Aristotle, and that of Ramus are the same: for, by farre distant, Aristotle can meane no other but opposition, and by conspicuitie in difference, he can vnderstand no lesse, then an opposition that is made wholy, and every way: for that opposition is indeed conspicuous: we may finde it with little labour, and iudge of it with great certaintie.
[Opposites] This word signifies such things, as are set against each other.
[Wholy disagree] That is, both respectiuely, because the subiect doth [Page 75]want the thing that dissenteth: and really, because the subiect cannot receiue the thing that dissenteth: When the subiect, and the thing dissenting, doth abhorre each other, and are (as we say) incompatible, then there is a totall opposition betweene them: we haue examples hereof in such sayings as these be:
I say the nature of opposites is found in these, not in those wherein man barely, and simply is subiected: for dissent is in the qualitie not the quidditie, or being of the subiect: as hath beene shewed. 2. Povertie and sicknes agrees to man barely, 3 and simply taken, and so they doe not oppose him at all: the reason why povertie, and sicknesse are opposite vnto a man that is rich, and in health, is because riches, and povertie are of that nature that they cannot befall the same subiect, in the same respect, part, and time: therefore, whensoever one of them is affirmed, the other is thereby [Page 76]denied. Thus much of opposites in generall; in the next place, I must set downe the speciall kindes of them.
CHAP. XIIII. Of the distribution of Opposities.
Opposites are Ramus.
- Disparats,
-
Contraries,
-
Affirmatine,
- Relatiues.
- Adversatiues.
-
Negatiues,
- Contradictories.
- Priuatiues.
-
Affirmatine,
ARistotle doth divide Opposites, 1 Categor. cap. 10. Iust in the same manner that Ramus doth; in these words;
Opposites are
- Relatiues.
-
Contraries,
- Without meane.
- with
-
meane
- without name.
- with name.
- Priuatiues.
- Contradictories.
Thomas doth divide opposites, De veritate, q. 28. art. 6. in cor. agreeable vnto them both: in these words, Opposits import a positiue nature
- in both.
-
in one, onely, as
- Contradictories.
- Privatiues.
That they all agree in the nature of the thing, the explication of the particulars will shew: their difference in manner of speaking, doth helpe (well) vnto the vnderstanding of the whole.
[Opposites are] In this division, 2 opposition is placed betweene arguments that be predicated: but that seemes to be disagreeable vnto the definition of dissenting arguments in generall. cap. 12. I answer, opposition is so placed indeed: yet this division disagrees not from that definition: for, they may be vnderstood two wayes, and agreeable to that definition in both. If they speake of the predicates, in case where the one is affirmed, and the other denied of the same subiect, in the same respect, part, and time, [Page 78]then they agree wholy with that definition; for, then that predicate which is denied, doth oppose the thing argued: and I thinke that these authors meant thus: for, they know that the predicates themselues containe neither truth, nor falshood, and therefore no opposition. If they speake of the predicates themselues, not attributed to some subiect, then they giue them the foundation of opposition, and not formall, and actuall opposition: and therefore, they agree fully with that definition, and truth: with that definition: for, it doth suppose, that the foundation of formall, and actuall opposition is in the predicates themselues: and they agree with truth: for, it is most certaine, that the predicates themselues are the foundation of formall, and actuall opposition: by reason they are of that nature, that if one be attributed, the rest cannot, as is truely delivered by Ramus in this point of opposites: And Altaco. in 1. sent. q. 2. lit. H. even as the dore when it is shut, debarres all [Page 79]entrance: and an armour of proofe repells the bullet. Now, I haue cleered this doubt, I proceed to set out the nature of the particulars.
CHAP. XV. Of Disparats.
[Disparats] This word importeth inequalitie, and therefore it may seeme vnfit for this place: yet it is duely placed, for thereby we vnderstand an inequalitie, not in the quantitie, or force of opposition, as if these opposites did oppose, some more, and some lesse: but of number, and therfore, those opposites which beare this title, are thus defined.
Disparates are opposites, Ramus. one of which is alike opposed, to many.
Aristotle cals these opposites by the name of Contraries, 1 and doth set them out by these properties: 1. They may be, and not be, in the subiect. 2. A [Page 80]third thing comes in the meane, or midle betweene them. 3. This third, either partakes of both the opposites, or is of it selfe, and partakes of neither. Now it is playne both Aristotle, and Ramus doe speake of one kind of opposites: for, both of them doe instance the opposites they speake of in one and the same example: viz, black and white. If we apply that instance vnto them both, we shall see that they disagree not 1. These colours are opposite 2. They may be, and not be, in the same subiect. 3. They haue a third thing that comes betweene them: as greene, red, and all other colours. 4. These midle colours doe partake of black, and white. 5. each one of them is alike, or equally opposed to the rest: a man may truly say, he that is blacke, is not red, nor greene &c: and so of the rest. 6. many doe oppose one: for, he that is any one of them is denied to be all the rest.
2 Aristotle doth also instance these opposites in good, and bad: and thereby their nature is fitly resembled: for, [Page 81]experience tels vs, that betweene good, and bad actions there be some, which be both good, and bad: and therefore, they partake of both the opposites. There is also, a cessation or omision of action, and that comes betweene them both, and partakes of neither. Thomas giues these opposites a seventh propertie, viz: They import a positiue nature, sometimes in both, and sometimes but in one, and doth instance the first in blacke, and white; and we might instance the second, in good, and evill.
Thus we see these authors conspire in one, every one of them brings a part, and all of them together doe make a full, and compleat exposition of the thing in hand.
The vse of this argument is very needfull, and comes often, 3 we finde it in the word of God: The holy Ghost doth argue the Church of Laodicea, Revel. 3.17. with this argument, thou art (sayth hee) wretched, miserable, poore, blinde, and naked: therefore, thov art not rich, nor increased [Page 82]with goods, nor needest nothing, as thou vainely braggest. Where, all the things denyed, are opposed vnto the wretched Laodiceans, in the next place wee come to Relatiues.
CHAP. XVI. Of Relatives.
VVEe finde this precept delivered by Aristotle in the 10. 1 Chap. of his Categories: Those arguments (sayth he) which are opposed as Relatiues, the one opposite is referred to the other mutually: and Thomas deliuers the same thing, when (sayth he 1 p. q. 28. art. 2. in cor.) Things are spoken relatiuely, then a certaine relation, or reference of one opposite, to another is signified.
[Relatiues] This word importeth things that are referred the one to the [Page 83]other. Relatiues (sayth Thomas 1. p. q. 28. art. 1. in cor.) doe signifie according to their proper nature, onely, a respect of one thing to another.
[Affirming] This word is brought to set out vnto vs, that both termes opposed, doe comprehend positiue beings: Aristotle agrees with Ramus in it, in the place alledged, when hee sayth, That, Relatiues (even) in the thing that they are, be referred: so also, hee giues instance of relatiue opposition in knowledge, and the thing to be knowne: and both of them doe signifie positiue beings. And Thomas doth teach the same thing, as I haue shewed in the 14. Chapter.
The onely doubt is, 2 what the terms in relatiue opposition doe affirme, Thomas doth resolue this doubt, 1. p. q. 28. on this maner:
In Relatiues there is their
- Foundation.
- Relation.
Relatiues are founded vpon either [Page 84]quantitie, or action, and passion: art. 1 in cor. In this sence, Relation doth import an accidentall being in the subiect art. 2. in cor: or things assisting outwardly affixed art. 2. in cor. The proper nature of relation, consisteth in a respect of one thing to another, art. 1. ad 1 m. which respect doth after a sort befall the thing related, in that it tendeth from it selfe into another art. 2. in cor.
[Contraries] That is, 3 one single terme, doth oppose another single terme. Aristotle teacheth the same thing, when hee putteth knowledge, and the thing to be knowne, as an instance of Relatiue opposition.
[The one &c.] 4 In these words, the proper nature of Relatiue opposition is set out: and they import such an opposition, as wherein the terms opposed doe mutually constitute each other. Aristotle teacheth the same, when he affirmeth, that the terms opposed bee mutually referred each to other: and denies, that mutuall reference to all other kinde of opposites. [Page 85] Thomas also hath the same thing: Relatiues (saith he 1. p. q. 42. ar. 3. ad 2 m.) are together in nature, and our vnderstanding; in asmuch as, the one is comprehended in the definition of the other, wherfore Ramus concludeth truly in these words.
To conclude this point of Relatiue opposition, it may bee demanded, 5 whether all Relatiues be opposits? I answere first; The foundation of Relatiues bee Adjuncts, or Causes, and effects: therefore, in that respect, no relatiues are opposites. Secondly, the proper nature of relation consisteth onely in a respect, that one thing hath vnto another without it selfe, and so also no relatiues are opposites: for which cause, Aristotle makes Relatiues to be consenting arguments, as [Page 86]I haue shewed Chap. 3. foregoing. Thirdly, The things comprehended in the termes related, or referred, be such, that, they agree not vnto the same subiect, in the same respect, part, and time: and thus all relatiues be opposites. Fourthly, The opposition that is betweene the termes related, is made relatiuely, that is, each terme opposed hath a respect, and relation, the one to the other: so as, we conceiue the one is against the other, and the one doth constitute the other; neither of them can be in themselues, nor knowne to vs, but by the one, and the other: yet when they are, they oppose one another; And thus, all relatiues be opposites. This I gather from Tho. 1. p. q. 28. Relatiues (saith he) signifie a certaine Relation of one terme vnto its opposite, art. 2. in cor. The nature of relation is a respect of one to another, according to which, one thing is opposed vnto another relatiuely, art. 3. in cor. Thus (I hope) this doubt is fully cleered.
6 We finde the nature of these argumēts [Page 87]fully layd open in this sentence.
Here. I Father and Sonne are terms referred the one to the other, as things that respect one another. 2. This respect goeth out of the one to the other, the Father is a respect that tendeth vnto the Sonne, and the Sonne a respect that extendeth to the Father. 3. The termes related doe mutually constitute one another, in their owne being, and our knowledge; the Father is, and is knowne to be, by the Sonne, and the Sonne is, & is knowne to be, by the Father. 4. The foundation of this relation is Paternity, and Filialitie: now, Paternitie being referred vnto Filialitie, we finde cause, and effect: but Paternitie being referred vnto the Father, is an adjunct: and Filialitie is an adjunct to the Sonne. Thus farre they both consent with the subiect which they argue. 5. The things comprehended vnder these two termes cannot agree to the same subiect, in [Page 88]the same respect, and time: so as, now we finde them opposites: no man can be Father, and Sonne in the same respect, and at the same time. 6. Wee finde these termes of Father, and Son opposed relatiuely, (that is) in what sort the one doth respect the other, in that sort it is referred, as vnto its opposite: but so as, one terme makes the other to be in it selfe, and our knowledge. 7. These termes of Father and Sonne be contraries: for, as Thomas sayth, Contrarietie is a difference according to the forme. 1 a. 2ae. q. 35. art. 3. & 4. in cor. And such a difference there is betweene Father, and Sonne, Paternitie is formally one thing, and Filialitie is formally another. The same things are to be found in many other examples, as in Prince, and subiect: Priest, and people: Master, and servant: Seller, and buyer &c. But this shall suffice, as sufficient to open the nature of relatiue opposition. In the next place we must come to adversatiues.
CHAP. XVII. Of Adversatiues.
ARistotle teacheth the same thing touching the nature of these opposits, 1 (though his words seeme different) he sayth of them thus; Those arguments which be so contrarie, that one of them must of necessitie be in the subiect that can receiue them, they neither are referred the one to the other, nor haue any third to come betweene them.
[Contraries] Adversatiues be contraries, 2 because one alone opposeth vnto one alone: this opposition is taught by Aristotle, when he sayth, One of these opposites is in the subiect that is fit to receiue the same, and doth instance them in health, and sicknes.
[Alwayes] This word and therest which follow, 3 doe set out the speciall nature of these opposits: and by them we vnderstand what these opposites be, and how they differ from all others. This word signifies the continuance, and perpetuitie of opposition that is betweene these opposites, namely, that it ceaseth not at any time: because (as Aristotle sayth) no subiect that is capable hereof can possibly be without one of them: now, in this they differ from Disparates, and relatiues: for, every subiect that can be blacke, and white, may at some time be neither of them; so also, a man may be neither Father, nor Sonne. No Father, when he hath no childe, and no childe when he hath no Father.
[Directly] This word importeth an opposition that is without mixture, 4 interposition, or diversion; like vnto a straight line that extendeth betweene two points, and this no doubt was intended by Aristotle, when he sayd, These opposites be without relation, or a third thing to come betweene them. [Page 91]Herein these opposites differ from Disparats, and relatiues, the one receiues the interposing of a third: and the other admits a mixture of consenting, and thereby a diversion from opposing: by that relation, and respect that the one hath to the other. Wee haue all these particulars layd open to vs, in that one instance which wee finde in Aristotle: namely, ‘He that is in health, is not sicke.’
In this example we finde, 1. one side set against another. 2. one positiue being is set against another; for, so we conceiue of sicknes. 3. One of these is true of a man alwayes: he cannot be but sicke, or well; because, the temper of his bodie requires it, and therefore this opposition is in man alwayes, because when he is sicke, he is not well: and when he is well, he is not sicke. 4. There is no third thing to come betweene sicknes, and health. 5. Sicknes is never mixed with health, nor health with [Page 92]sicknes. 6. This opposition is direct: he that falls from health becomes presently sicke: when sicknes is expelled, then health is presently recovered: the one devours the other, and contrariwise, the one overcomes the other: like vnto two armies in the field, the last motion in fighting on the one side, is the first motion in pursuite on the other side: this may suffice for all those opposites which doe containe positiue being in both terms.
CHAP. XVIII. Of Privatiues.
IN this Chapter and that which followes, wee must handle negatiue contraries.
Privatiues are negatiue Contraries, Ramus.the one whereof denies in that subiect (onely) wherein the affirmatiue is by nature.
That which is affirmed is called the [Page 93]habit: that which is denyed the privation, or privatiue.
ARistotle teacheth the same things in the tenth Chapter of his Categories, 1 Privation and habit vniversally taken (saith he) is sayd concerning one, and the same thing: namely, that wherein nature requires that the habit should be. In this we conceiue the habit, and the privation; To haue the habit, and to be deprived thereof, and these two are not the same: for, both of them cannot be attributed to the same thing. To be deprived, and to haue the habit are opposed as privation, and habit: for, after what sort there is opposition betweene the privation, and habit, in the same sort to haue the habit, and to be deprived of the habit are opposed.
[Privatiues] This is the name of these opposites: 2 but it seemes not very fitly given: for, it belongs vnto one member onely; Aristotle (as we see) cals this opposition a privation, and habit; and Thomas, an opposition according to privation, and habit: de veritate q. 28. art. 6. in cor.
[Negatiue contraries] These opposites be vnfitly called negatiue, 3 because onely one of them is negatiue. Thomas (in the place alleadged) doth expresse the same thing more fitly: Some opposites (sayth he) are such as one onely imports a cetaine nature, and the rest no more but the removing, or negation of that nature affirmed. Contraries they may bee called: because one is opposed to one, but not properly, for the negation of a forme hath no forme.
[The one whereof, 4 &c.] These words and the rest doe set out the nature of these opposites, and placeth the same in these properties: 1. The one denyes, the other affirmes, (that is) the one hath a positiue being, called a habit, the other the absence of that habit, called a privation, or priuatiue. 2. This habit, and privation is opposed, not the one against the other, abstracted from their subject: but as the one is received by the subiect, so the other is substracted therfrom. 3. This subject whereabouts they are exercised, [Page 95]is one and the same: even that subiect, and no other is deprived that hath received the habit. 4. That subiect whereabout these opposites are exercised, is not every one vniversally; but onely that wherein the habit ought to be according to the course of nature.
The reason why these opposites must be exercised about such a subiect is; 5 because nothing can truely be sayd to be deprived, vnlesse the thing which is remoued, be due thereto by nature. The reason why, to haue the habit, and to be deprived thereof, are opposed, is because the habit and privation thereof, cannot befall the same subiect, in the same respect, part, and time.
All these particulars are declared in that one instance which Aristotle giues, 6 viz.
In this sentence we finde, 1. Two [Page 96]terms, viz. sight, and blindnesse. 2. The one imports a positiue being, the other the absence of that being. 3. The one is affirmed, the other denied, therefore one is opposed to one. 4. The things themselues abstracted from the subject are not opposed, but their oppositiō is exercised about one subiect. 5. One of the terms is due vnto the subiect wherein they oppose, viz. sight is due to mans nature: for God made him a seeing creature. 6. The foundation of that opposition is in sight, and blindnesse, in themselues abstracted from their subiect: we deny blindnes vnto the same man that hath sight: because mans bodie is not capable of them both together, in the same respect, part, and time. And here I put an end, to the opposition of habit and privation.
CHAP. XIX. Of Contradictories.
A Contradiction (saith Aliaco 1. sent. 1 q. 5. lit. M.) is the most manifest repugnancy that is, the affirmation of one, and negation of the same: and this is double, the one is of propositions, the other of terms: when as a fixite terme is opposed vnto an infinite terme. This place speaks of the last not of the first. Some opposites (sayth Thomas) deverit. q. 28. art. 6. in cor. doe affirme a certaine nature in one part, the other is a negation of the same, and these are opposites according to affirmation, and negation.
Aristotle doth teach the same things most fully: A Contradiction (sayth he) is an opposition which by it selfe wanteth a meane, or middle betweene [Page 98]them: Poster. lib. 1. cap. 2. Principium antem &c. And he doth explicate this thing further; Categor. cap. 10. Id quoque. That opposition (sayth he) that falleth vnder affirmation, and negation, is not affirmation, and negation belonging to this place: but the things which fall vnder affirmation, and negation, and these doe oppose the one the other, as affirmation, and negation; for, there is the same manner of opposition in these, as in them, even as affirmation, and negation are opposed, when we say, he sitteth, he sitteth not. So also the things subiected in both those sentences are opposed, namely, to sit, not to sit.
[Contradictories] This word is the name of this kinde of opposition, 2 and signifies properly two sentences w ch pronounce against each other, but in this place it is vsed to set out things which are subiected vnto such sentences, or doe fall vnder affiramtion and negation, and they may be so applied; because, such things d [...]e oppose each other no lesse naturally, and vniversally then sentences doe: and thereby [Page 99]they are the foundation of the affirmation, and negation in sentences.
[Negatiue Contraries] One part of the Contradiction is negatiue: 3 they may be called Contraries, because one doth oppose vnto one.
[The one denieth every where.] 4 These words doe place the nature of Contradictories in these properties: 1. They containe a deniall, that is, the absence of a positiue nature, affirmed in the one, is implyed, or vertually avouched in the other. 2. This deniall is made by one onely, the other alwaies containing a positiue nature. 3. This deniall is made vniversally: for all times, and respects, and every where; and in all subjects, so as, these oppositions containe alwayes a truth in them, whether Socrates be, or be not, one of them is alwayes true, and the other false: wherefore it is proper to the opposition of this ksnde, that one of them is true, or false: as Aristotle hath truly observed in the tenth chapter of his Categories. And the reason of it is good, all things that haue any [Page 100]being, must either continue, or discontinue in that being: from whence it is, that, Aristotle sayth, that this opposition is made by it selfe, and wants the intermission of a third: for no power can put a third thing betweene being, and not being, nor cause that thing not to be which is in the same respect and time, when and as it is, nor make that to be which is not in that respect, and during that time wherein it is not.
Aristotle and Aliaco guievs two examples in the places alledged, that doe fully represent the nature of these opposites.
Wee haue in these two sentences, two terms, viz. To sit, not to sit. A man, a not man. The first of these terms comprehends a positiue, and finite nature: in the second, a negation, or absence of that positiue nature, (by a terme infinite, and vnlimitted) is implied. [Page 101]The first is affirmed of a man, the second is denied of the same man. 3. This deniall extends to all times, and respects, wherein that affirmation may be conceiued. 4. This deniall is not voluntary, nor imposed: but, ariseth simply, and absolutely from the nature of the things themselues: no power can make him that is a man, not to be a man, during the time while he is a man. Neither can any power make that a man which is not a man, during the time wherein he is not a man. 5. It is alwayes true, or false of this, or that singular man, that either he is, or that he is not, there can be no third moment assigned, wherein he neither is, nor is not. So as with this I may put an end to Contradictory opposition, and the explication of all positiue arguments, both Consenting, and Dissenting.
CHAP. XX. Of Comparison in generall.
NOw we must come to comparatiue Arguments.
Aristotle delivers the doctrine of these arguments, 1 fully, and plainely enough, as we shall see anon.
[Comparatiue] These Arguments are opposed vnto positiue, and therefore, they haue a sense opposite to them.
[Compared together] These words doe set out the speciall nature of these arguments: they are called Comparatiue, because they are compared with other things; and this nature consisteth in two things: First, they are compared. Secondly, they are arguments, by meanes of that comparing. [Page 103]Things are compared together when the one is measured, waighed, or deciphered by the other; Thus timber is compared with the rule; wares are compared with the waights, and the picture with the thing pictured: and thus we vnderstand the word Compared in this place. A single terme becomes a compared argument, when it hath such a force to argue, or set out the subiect, as is receiued from another thing, that it is compared withall: and herein, these arguments haue an opposite nature vnto positiue: for, they borrow no force to argue from the qualitie, or quantitie of any other arguments.
These arguments haue these foure properties. 1. 2 They are equally knowne] (that is) the two things compared, haue in themselues no prioritie, or antecedency, to argue, and be argued: as we finde in the effect, and causes thereof: In the subiect, and the properties, and accidents annexed thereunto. 2. [Some men doe know the one better then the other.] That is, in the [Page 104]event, by reason they are acquainted with the one, and not with the other. 3. [They are taken sometimes, from things faigned.] And so, they may well be; for, such things haue a being in our vnderstanding, and that is enough to make them rationall beings; as wee learne from Thomas, 1 part. q. 16. art. 3. ad 2 m. That is enough also, to giue them a place in Logick: for every being, as well rationall, as reall is obiected thereunto. 4. [Comparisons taken from fained things doe argue, and set out the subiect.] Because, the force that all comparisons haue to argue, ariseth from the apprehension of our vnderstanding; and not from any reall relation, or consent that the one hath to the other.
Now, 3 because the Reader might know, how to finde a Comparison in a Discourse, wee must vnderstand, that, sometimes they are set out by certaine words, which are proper to them: and sometimes they lie open in sentences that are fit to expresse them: In this case the first sentence is called the proposition: [Page 105]the second the reddition: therefore, when he findes them, he needs no other direction; Sometimes also, they are set downe without notes, or markes; and the parts are inverted, or contracted: then the matter it selfe must direct him. These are all, that belong to comparisons in common.
CHAP. XXI. Of the Distribution of comparison.
- Quantitie,
- Equall.
- Vnequall, the
- Greater
- Lesser.
Ramus.
-
Qualitie,
- Like.
- Vnlike.
ARistotle hath every branch of this division; 1 In his Categortes in the sixt Chapter, he placeth Comparison, In quantitie, as proper thereto: and divides it into equall, and vnequall. In the 8. Chapter, he placeth Comparison [Page 106]in qualitie, and doth divide it irto like, and vnlike, and makes this kinde of Comparison, to be found onely in qualitie. Lastly, cap. 6. At horum &c. and cap. 7. Omnta vero, he divides vnequall into greater and lesse: and the things themselues, that these two Authors bring, are received in the Schooles of all ages; therefore, I will proceed to the particulars.
CHAP. XXII. Of Equalitie.
ARistotle doth teach the same thing: 1 Top. lib. 1. cap. 9. Ex his, &c. Quantitie, sayth he, importeth magnitude.
[Quantitie] In the first place, we ought to vnderstand what quantitie [Page 107]is, else we shall not vnderstand, what is meant by a Comparison in quantitie.
[That which &c] These words set out the nature of quantitie, and place it in a magnitude; for, according to magnitude, things are sayd to be greater, or lesser: now, magnitudeis not taken here Geometrically, nor Arithmetically: but, in a larger sense: even, for every magnitude, by which a thing may be sayd to be thus, or so much: whether it be spoken of bodies, number, or vertues: of things reall, or intellectuall: for, this Logick requires; because it hath to doe with all things, wherein our vnderstanding hath any thing to doe.
One in quantitie makes equall; 2 so sayth Okam 1. dist. 19. q 1. lit. B. opinio. 1 a. I doe not finde this sentence in Aristotle expresly: yet he implies thus much, as wee shall see when we [Page 108]come to the Comparison of likenes, chap. 25. And no man thinkes otherwaies, therefore we must esteeme this sentence to be a precept of Art.
[Those things are equali] That is, 3 two things layd together, be of equall quantitie, or magnitude.
[Which haue the same quantitie.] That is, which are adaequate in magnitude: as when two lines be of the same length, the one is neither longer nor shorter then the other: when neither end of the scale waighes downe the other: when two numbers agree together, as, two and two; foure and foure; for, thus every magnitude is one in quantitie. Now, we haue the nature of Equals defined, and set out vnto vs, we must know how to finde and vse them.
As and So, 4 be signes of this comparison; but not proper to them: for, [Page 109]many times they are found in comparison of likenes. I doe not finde that Aristotle, or other Schooles, doe thus punctually shew vs how to finde out these comparisons, onely, I finde that Thomas sayth 1. p. q. 42. art. 1. in cor. Then a thing is sayd to be equall, when it is denyed, to be vnequall, that is more or lesse: and I finde the same thing in Aristotle Meta. lib. 10. text 15.16. from whence we may inferre their agreement with Okam, that placeth the equallitie of things, in being one in quantitie.
We haue examples wherein comparisons of equallitie are set out by these marks, or signes, namely; 5
1. Both the Cherubes were of one measure: 1 Kings. 6.25.
2. Thou hast made them equall to vs: Mat. 20.12.
3. Sinners lend to sinners, to receiue as much againe; Luke 6.34.
4. The length of the Citie is as large as the breadth: Revel. 21.16.
5. I cannot doe lesse, or more then Gods word commands: Numb. 21.18.
[Page 110]6. Ye are not inferior to other Churches: 2. Cor. 12.13.
Sometime the Proposition and Reddition are distinctly set downe. 6
7. As his part is, that goeth to the batile, so shall his part bee, that tarrieth by the [...]uffe: 1. Sam. 30.34.
8. How much shee hath glorified her selfe, and lived delictously, so much torment, and sorrow giue her: Revel. 18.7.
In these examples, wee finde two Cherubes to bee one in dimension. Two Labourers, one in wages. A lender, and a borrower one in quantitie of money. The length and breadth of the Citie one in measure. The Corinths and other Churches one in grace, &c. They that went to warre, and they that guarded the stuffe, one in the quantitie of prey. The Whore of Babylons delights, and sorrowes one in extent. By this we see how to finde out such comparisons, as are marked out vnto vs.
I will also set downe some comparisons that want those signes, 7 or markes, viz.
What force vertue hath to happines, that force vice hath to cursednes.
The Iewes answered, wee can not tell, Christ answered neither tell I you. Mat. 21.23.
In the first, Vice and vertue, are one in efficacie. In the second, Christ and the Iewes, are one in silence. By this we may know how to finde out these comparisons.
Now I will shew how we should vse them, for, 8 hitherto we finde them comparisons, but no arguments, because thus farre they are wholy destitute of relation to any subiect, in this quantitie, the one sets out the other, and no more: but every argument leads vs to know some subiect, which we knew not. I will shew their vse, by one of the examples, (and I thinke that will suffice) on this maner.
The Whore of Babylon hath sorrowes.
In this sentence, the word sorrow doth leade vs to vnderstand what the Whore of Babylon is: viz: in her estate or condition. Now, because some [Page 112]man doth not know the quantitie of this sorrow: but doth know the quantitie of her delight: therefore, her sorrow is layd to her delight, and thereby hee comes to know what is the quantitie of her sorrow, in as much, as, shee is one in the quantitie of both. By this I hope the Reader will finde the way how to make vse of all comparatiue arguments, so as, I shall not neede to doe the like in any of the rest which follow.
CHAP. XXIII. Of Vnequales.
TO the same effect speaks Thomas 1. p. q. 42. art. 1. in cor. 1 Ʋnequals (sayth he) cannot be one in numericall quantitie: and thus much Aristotle and Okam speake: because, they make [Page 113]those things equall, which be one in quantitie.
This definition hath nothing in it to be expounded: for, 2 that is done alreadie in the definition of quantitie. Cap. 22.
The greater is that, Ramus. the quantitie whereof doth exceede.
The termes of this definition, may be vnderstood by that which is past, in the last Chapter.
The proper markes of this Comparison, are such as these: 2
Not onely, but also. Rather this, then that: More then: Much more.
Examples of these Comparisons, are these which follow.
I am readie, not to be bound onely: but also, to dye for the name of the Lord Iesus. Act 21.13.
I had rather be a dore-keeper in Gods house, then dwell in the tents of wickednes. Psal. 84.10.
The Lord loueth the gates of Sion, more then all the dwellings of Iacob. Psal. 82.2.
If, when wee were enemies, wee were [Page 114]reconciled to God, by the death of his sonne: much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. Rom. 5.6.7.
In these examples, we haue these Comparisons. To be bound, and to dye, doe differ in the quantitie of bitternes, & this is esteemed to exceed that. To keepe a dore, and to dwell in the tents &c. are layd together, and this preferred before that, in mans judgement, as exceeding in the quantitie of excellency. The gates of Sion, are compared with the other dwellings of Israell, in the quantitie of glory, and louelines, and these preferred before that. The reconciling of an enemy, and the saving of a friend, are compared in the quantitie of difficultie, and that is judged to excell this.
In these Comparisons, 3 the greater is brought to set out the lesser, to the end, that the lesse may set out and declare the subiect, or thing argued: and the holy Ghost himselfe hath shewed vs how to doe it, for in the last of the examples, he doth reason thus;
The reason of this consequence is this, viz. (In the judgement of man) the first is more difficult then the second. It is a hard thing to reconcile an enemie; for, then the whole worke is to doe: But not so hard to saue a friend; for, such a one is next dore to salvation. In the same sort, David argues: If I loue to dwell in Gods house, rather then in mans tents; then my affection is exceeding fervent thereto: for, mans tents (in the judgement of man) exceed Gods house for outward pleasure, and profit: and after this sort we may argue from the rest.
CHAP. XXIIII. Of the Lesse.
I Shall not need to explicate, and avow this definition: for, that is done enough alreadie, in the two former Chapters: therefore, I proceed to set downe examples of it.
In these Instances, the Comparison we seeke for, is very apparent: A [Page 117]stone and a fooles wrath is Compared, in the quantitie of waight: and that is sayd to be lesse then this. Paul and others are layd together in the quantitie of labour, and he exceeds them. The passing of a Camell through a needles eye, and a rich mans going to heaven, are compared together in the quantitie of difficultie: and that is inferior to this. The Oxe, and Israell are set together, in the quantitie of ignorance: and these are more blamed then they.
These Comparisons doe argue the greater, by the lesse, and they must be framed thus: A fooles wrath abounds in waight: for, the stones and sand are not so heavie as it. If Israell be ignorant of me, then their ignorance is excessiue: for, the Oxe in his kinde is not so ignorant: because, he knowes who owes him, and feedes him, so doe not they. And thus much for Comparison in quantitie.
CHAP. XXV. Of Likenesse.
I Call a qualitie (sayth Aristotle, 1 Categor. Cap. 8.) that, of which, things are sayd to be of this or that manner: and a qualitie must be reckoned amongst them which are sayd to be manifold, or of many sorts.
Those are like (sayth Aristotle, 2 meta. lib. 5. cap. 15. text. 20.) whose qualitie is one. One in qualitie makes things to be like, so sayth Okam. 1. dist. 19. q. 1. lit. B. opinio 1. I will end with Gillius, A likenes (sayth he) is an agreement in qualitie. lib. 2. tract. 5. cap. 1. n o. 1.
From hence wee may conclude, that (in the judgement of Aristotle) those things be equall, which are one [Page 119]in quantitie: because, he makes them to be like, which be one in qualitie: and consequently, he placeth comparison in qualitie in the same thing that Okam doth, whose judgement is alledged. Chap. 22.
Aristotle doth explicate the nature of these Comparisons: 3 Top. lib. 1. cap. 17. Similitudes (sayth he) must be considered either in things which are of divers kindes; Or in those which are of the same kinde. The first is after this manner: as one thing is to one, so another is to another: as for example, as knowledge is to the thing knowne, so sense is to the thing sersible. Againe, as one is in one, so another is in another: as for example, as sight is in the eye, so the mind is in the soule: as, calmnes is in the Sea, so cleernes is in the ayre: and both of them are quietnesse. Wee haue examples of the second kinde, when the same qualitie is in many: as smelling, seeing, &c. in a man, a horse, a dog: for, how farre forth the same thing is in them, so farre forth they are alike.
I will content my selfe with the bare allegation of Aristotles words: 4 I shall not need to compare them with Ramus, nor seeke for their sence: because, all that Ramus brings in this Comparison, is but an explication, and Comment of the words alledged: what Aristotle delivers in briefe, Ramus opens at large; therefore, I will set downe what he sayth.
I will shew examples of this Comparison, 5 where the markes are observed: as followeth,
As in this example,
Of this kinde are all metaphors, or borrowed words, they (I say) containe similitudes, as when Christ is called a rocke, a shepheard, a vine; and God the Father an husbandman. For in them, Christ, and God the Father, are likened vnto those things which be vsually signified in those words.
Foure termes 6 are then found in a full Comparison, when there be two in the Proposition, and two other in the Reddition. These examples will shew it.
The termes in the Proposition are Waxe, Fire: in the Reddition vngodly, Gods presence.
The terms in this full Comparison, are these foure: The Hart, River, Soule, God.
And this we finde in this example: ‘Husbands loue your wiues, even as Christ loved the Church. Ephes. 5.29.’
The terms in this Comparison are, 7 Christ, Church; Husbands, Wiues. The Reddition is set first, the Proposition last. If we place it orderly, this is the frame of it: As Christ loued the Church, so must men loue their wiues.
And this instance shewes it.
The Comparison lies thus; 8 as is a potsheard, and drosse couered with silver; so are burning lips, and a wicked [Page 123]ked heart: fayre without, and foule within. The foure terms are distinct: Drosse, Silver; burning lips, a wicked heart.
This example will make it familiar.
In this similitude, 9 there are but three terms: viz. Father, Christ, Disciples; Christ, the second terme, is referred to the third terme, Disciples; so the first terme Father, is referred to the second terme Christ.
The words of our Saviour will manifest this sentence.
The three terms in this similitude are these, Lord, Servant, Fellow: 10 and [Page 124]it ought to haue this forme: As the Lord had pittie on thee: so thou shouldest haue had pittie on thy fellow.
And so much we finde in Scripture: 11 for, Christ spake much in parables, and all parables be similitudes taken from fained things. I should now (according to my former course) apply the examples vnto their severall rules; but I will spare that labour: for, the similitudes doe lye so plaine in them, that much labour will not make them plainer. I may not shew how these similitudes doe argue the subiect, and ingender truth: for, that is not their office, but Comparisons in qualitie, doe onely make our knowledge more easie, and familiar.
This example will shew it.
In this sentence, destruction is attributed [Page 125]to wicked men: and thereby we vnderstand what condition befalls them. To make this knowledge more easie, and sensible, the holy Ghost doth compare them to the meling of Waxe, and thereby we finde, that, this condition befalls them secretly, certainly, vnrecoverably: for, such is the qualitie of melting waxe, that cannot be discerned how it melteth, nor prevented from melting, nor recovered againe when it is melted.
Aristotle seems to differ from Ramus, 12 because he maketh similitudes vsefull to the framing of
- Reasons.
- Syllogismes.
- Definitions.
To the first, because by the induction of many particular likenesses, wee conclude the vniversall. To the second, because we take as confessed as it is in such and such, so it is in the thing in question. To the third, because in Similitudes, the termes are Compared together in one thing, that is, common vnto them: such a thing, is a Genus, and a Genus is required to a definition. Top lib. 1. cap. 18.
I answer, I must not (now) decide this doubt, because the point it selfe doth not fit this place: for, the first branch speakes of things Compared. The third, of the qualitie wherein they are compared; and both of them belong to the matter of a Comparison, not to the formall nature thereof. The second is a Comparison of equalitie (if any at all) no Comparison of likenesse: and this I take as certaine, therefore here I will end Comparisons of likenesse.
CHAP. XXVI. Of Vnlike.
WEe haue little to say touching this comparison: 1 for, the explication of comparison in likenes, doth sufficiently set out, the nature of [Page 127]a comparison of vnlikenes. I will therefore adde examples of it, and that shall suffice; and in that also I will content my selfe with these which follow.
The fourth beast, was vnlike to all the beasts before it: Dan. 7.19.
There is one glory of the Sunne, another of the Moone, and another of the Starres, for one Starre differeth from another in glory: 1. Cor. 15.41.
There is none like mee in all the earth: Exod. 9.14.
But not as the offence, so is the gift: Rom. 5.15.
The Sunne doth set, and rise, Man dies, and liues no more.
The things compared, and the qualitie wherein they are vnlike: are so easie to bee found in these examples, that, I should seeme to lose my labour, if I should attempt to shew them The last is the most difficult, because it wanteth the signes of this comparison, yet every man may see, that, the Sunne and Man, are compared together, in the qualitie of dying: [Page 128]the Sunne dyes by setting, and revives by rising, man dyes, but revives no more.
The vse of these dissimilitudes, 2 is also found in this last instance, where every singular man is set out by his subiection to death; as a qualitie of his being: now, although this predication be truly made in the iudgement of all men: (for none will deny that man is subiect to death) yet our knowledge hereof is furthered when the truth is vnfolded, and made more easie: for that end, these comparisons of likenes, and vnlikenes are brought: we doe then more readily conceiue what death is to man, when wee see it is vnlike the death of the sunne, that revives, so doth not man. This that I haue sayd (I hope) is sufficient to shew the nature, and vse of similitudes, and dissimilitudes: and therefore here I will end the matter of comparatiue arguments; and all those which be predicated onely.
CHAP XXVII. Of the Genus and Species.
IN this place wee must set downe, 1 those arguments which bee sometimes predicated, and sometimes subiected: for, that is the last thing contained in this part of Logick; as I haue shewed in the third Chapter foregoing.
The arguments of this kinde, are called the second substance: consisting in the Genus and Species: as is also declared in the place alleadged. In the handling hereof, wee must first set downe their nature. Secondly, how they be predicated, and how subiected. Thirdly, we must shew that they be a second substance.
The Genus is that whole, Ramus. that is essentiall to the parts.
And thus sayth Aristotle too. The Genus (sayth Porphyrie, Cap. 2.) [Page 130] Is a certaine whole: yea (as Okam sayth 1. dist. 8. q. 4. lit. D. & E.) The Genus importeth the whole thing: not, because it doth partake of all the specificall differences: for then; one and the same thing should partake of contraries; which may not be granted, in the iudgement of Aristotle. Meta. lib. 2. Cap. 12. text. 42. But because it is an essence common vnto many: as the same Aristotle teacheth; Top. lib. 1. Cap. 18. ad definitiones, Cap. 5. Proprium verò & Porphyrie, Cap. 2. Quod etiam. And a whole not designed as Thomas thinketh: 1. dist. 25. q. 1. art. 1. ad. 2 m.
Porphyrie, 2 and Aristotle doe speake to the same purpose; A Species (sayth Porphyrie) is placed vnder the Genus, as a thing that is essentiall thereto. cap. 2. Explicant igatur. And yet more plainly, in the same Chapter. Continetur igitur. The Species is both a whole, and a part: a part vnto another (that is) [Page 131] vnto the Genus, sayth Aristotle, meta. lib. 5. cap 24. text. 30. A whole not vnto another, but in others: because it is a whole in the parts.
The generall is either supreame, Ramus.or inferior. The speciall is either middlemost, or lowest.
The supreame Genus, is that which hath no Genus aboue it.
The inferior Genus, is that which is inferior to one, and superior to another.
The lowest species, is that which cannot be divided into other specialls.
Wee haue all this in Porphyrie, and thus he writeth in the second Chapter alledged. In every Category there be some things that be most generall, and others that are most speciall; and betweene these, there be some that are both generall, and speciall. That is most generall, vnto which there can be no superior Genus. That is most speciall, vnto which there can be no other Species inferior. Betweene the most generall, [Page 132]and the most speciall; There be others, which the selfe same thing, is both Genus and Species, being referred some while to one thing, and otherwhile to another: as for example; a Substance is a Genus, and vnder that, there is a bodie: and vnder a bodie, an animated bodie: and vnder an animated bodie, a living Creature: and vnder a living Creature, a rationall living Creature: vnder that a singular man. Of all these, a substance is most generall, because it is a Genus onely. A man is the most speciall, because it is a Species onely: but a bodie, is a Species of substance, and a Genus vnto an animated body. An animated body, is a Species of a body: Againe, a living Creature, is a Species vnto an animated body: and Genus vnto a reasonable living Creature: but a reasonable liuing Creature, is the Genus of a man. And so much for the nature of the Genus and Species.
Wee must now shew, 3 how the Genus, and Species, is subiected, and predicated: for, that is the second thing we vndertooke. Aristotle doth [Page 133]that, partly in the fourth booke of his Topickes, the first and second Chapters: and partly, but more fully, in the fifth Chapter of his Categories, where he proceedeth thus: The Genus is attributed vnto all, and every the Species, that are contained vnder the same. The Species is subiected to the Genus, the Genus is predicated both of the Species, and the individuall: the Species is predicated of the individuall. Thus farre Aristotle. Wee may make this familiar to our vnderstanding, by these examples:
In the first, living Creature is a Genus, viz. of reasonable, and vnreasonable Creatures. A man, is a species: because it is one kinde of living Creature. Living Creature, is attributed to man: the Genus to the Species. In the second, Peter is an individuall: Man is a species, and thereby we see that the species is predicated of the individuall; [Page 132] [...] [Page 133] [...] [Page 134]and consequently, the Genus is predicated of the individuall also: for, the Genus hath no being but in some species, as Thomas hath truly observed. 1. p. q. 15. art. 3. ad 4 m. And the things themselues do say no lesse. If a man, then a living Creature: seeing every man is a living Creature. By this (I hope) it is plaine, that the species is subiected, and both species, and Genus are predicated.
Some man may doubt, 4 whether the Genus be not alwayes predicated, and consequently belongs to those arguments, that are alwayes predicated. I answer, the Genus (as it is a Genus) is alwayes predicated, and so must be, vnlesse we will divert nature: but that Genus that is sometimes a species, is subiected: and may be so, when it is a species, and that is enough to bring the Genus vnto this place; for, it makes it sometime predicated, sometime subiected. This example will shew that I answer truly.
A living Creature, is a Genus of a man: but a species of a living bodie, and it is subiected in the fore sayd proposition. A living body, is a Genus to a living Creature: for, vnder that is comprehended, the growing plants, that increase: but cannot moue themselues: as a living Creature that can both waxe bigger, and moue themselues also: now, this Genus is predicated of a living Creature: therefore, wee may rest assured, that a Genus is sometimes predicated, and other some time subiected.
The third thing that we seeke for is, 5 whether the Genus, and Species be a second substance. Aristotle Categor. cap. 5. proues that they are: on this manner: They are a substance, because 1. We may truely say they be something. 2. They appertaine to the essence of every particular being. 3. They are subiected vnto others, and others are predicated of them which is proper vnto a substa [...]e. They are a second substance: because. 1. They are Communicated to many. 2. They are predicated sometimes, [Page 136]and consequently, they haue not the proper nature of a substance: for, that is alwayes subiected, in so much, as nothing could exist, but by reason of substance properly so called.
The species comes neerer to a first substance then the Genus: 6 because, 1. The species is in nature, and predication neerer to the individuall, then the Genus; as a man is neerer vnto Peter, then a living Creature. 2. The Genus, is Communicated to more then the species. 3. The species, as it is a species, is subiected alwaies to the Genus: and it selfe never predicated; but of the individuall. These things are evident in themselues: therefore, I need not adde any proofes to confirme them, they are easie, and open to our vnderstanding: therefore, I will not stand to vnfold them. If any require me to shew, how the Genus, and species doe argue, and set out the first substance. I answer, that, that request is not in vaine: because (as Aristotle truely sayth, in the fift Chapter of his Categories.) All other things [Page 137]are predicated of the first substance: therefore, if the first substance were not, none of the rest could be. Yet notwithstanding, this place doth not require me to shew it: because the instances given alreadie, haue done that in part, and the precepts of a definition will shew it yet more, but they belong to the second part of Logicke, and may not be brought hither, without in [...]urie to nature, and our vnderstanding.
I will satisfie the demand so farre as this place permits, and this one sentence will doe it.
Peter is a man.
Here, man is a species, 7 because it is but one kinde of thing, comprehended vnder the name of living Creature. The lowest species, because no Creatures that haue different formall beings, are contained vnder it. Peter, signifies a first substance, because it importeth a thing that cannot be divided, otherwise then into matter, and forme; viz. his soule and body: and they be in Peter, as in a whole, not as in a subiect; as we learne by Aristotle, [Page 138]Categor. cap. 5. Porròue nos &c. Man is attributed vnto this first substance, and thereby every superiour Genus is attributed to it also: for, if a man then 1. a living Creature. 2. A liuely body. 3. A body. 4. A substance, and consequently, when wee attribute man vnto Peter, that goes not alone, all the rest goe with it
I haue now (I hope) satisfied the demand, 8 and shewed the force that these arguments haue to argue the first substance; and therefore, I am come to an end, of all that belongs vnto those arguments, which be sometimes predicated, and sometimes subrected: and therewithall, I haue finished all that belongs, to the first part of Logicke, in the judgement of Aristotle, and the nature of the things themselues. Ramus doth extend this first part of Logicke further then thus: but vndoubtedly, he followes his own apprehension, against the authoritie of all Logicke Schooles before him: and the nature of the things themselues. In the next Chapter, I will set [Page 139]downe, what he sayth, and why I dissent from him, and thereby giue a full Conclusion to this part of Logicke.
CHAP. XXVIII. Of Coniugates, &c.
Arguments that arise of the first, are
- Coniugates.
- Notation.
- Distribution.
Ramus.
- Definition.
These arguments haue the same force to argue, that the primitiues haue, from which they are derived.
THis precept, 1 sets out foure other seats of arguments, more then Aristotle hath, and giueth them place in the first part of Logicke. They belong to Logicke, and so farre this precept is true; but not to this place, and so faire it is false. I say, not to this place; for, even in the judgement of [Page 140] Ramus himselfe, they belong to other seats of arguments, namely, to them that he calls by the name of privatiue Arguments; for, (according to him) they haue the same force to argue that the primitiues haue, from which they are derived; therefore, they are the same with them, seeing the nature of every argument ariseth from its force to argue: but the precepts of them are alreadie dispatched, and ought not to be repeated againe.
If any say, 2 the force that these haue to argue ariseth not first, and originally out of themselues: but by reflection, (as the Moone is conceived to haue her light) and that therefore they ought to haue their owne proper seates in this Art. I answere first, they doe not argue by reflection, or any force received from others, as the particulars will shew. Secondly, although they did so, yet can they challenge no new places: for, if wee should multiplie the seates of arguments, according to the varietie that our vnderstanding doth apprehend [Page 141]to be in them, then wee must haue an endles (at least) a fruitles number: seeing it is in vaine to set ten men to doe the labour of one.
The foresayd seates of arguments, 3 belong not to this place (in the iudgment of Aristotle) therefore common vse hath not given it them, and consequently, they ought not to haue it; because Art is approved by vse: and so much for them all ioyntly.
Aristotle doth giue the name of Coniugates vnto some arguments; 4 namely, vnto all those that are of the same roote, Case, Conivgation, or ranke: as, Iustice, Iust, Iustly, Strength, Strong, Strongly, Top. lib. 2. cap. 9. therefore, there is no difference touching the name. In their nature they are no more, but either formall qualities, accidents, or properties.
Iustice in the abstract, is nothing; if we referre it to man, it is an accident: [Page 142]because he may haue it, and be without it, or a formall qualitie, being denominated, and constituted iust by it. Iustly, importeth an action done according to law; and therefore, what Iustice is to man, that Iustly is to an action: Conformitie to Law may be, and not be in an action, and being there it doth denominate, and constitute the action iust. Aristotle (in the place last alledged) calls them Coniugates: because when one of them is prooved good, and landable, all the rest are so too: therefore, he never meant to make them a seat of argumets distinct from his ten.
Aristotle doth acknowledge, 5 that some words doe interpret the nature of things, and denominate the things themselues: for, thus he writeth; Those are called denominates, which haue the appellation of a name from some other: but so, as, they differ in case, as from Grammar, man is called a Grammarian: from strength he is called Strong. [Page 143]Categor. Cap. 1. These are the same arguments with the former; for Grammarian, imports the skill of Grammar, and is an accident, because it may be, and not be in man: It is a formall qualitie, seeing it doth constitute, and denominate a man a Grammarian: Grammar is an abstract, and signifies nothing Logically; being no more but a comprehension of precepts. If we referre it to man, it is the same with Grammarian: namely, the same precepts literally, and habitually.
Distribution is when the whole is divided into parts. Ramus.
Distribution is called, the dividing of the whole. The gathering of the parts together, to make vp the whole, is called Induction.
When we say, a man hath two parts, 6 soule and bodie: Living Creatures are reasonable, and vnreasonable, then we make a distribution: and Aristotle doth acknowledge these distributions. Top. lib. 6. Cap. 1. but in a different sence.
Although it is very probable, that a distribution doth formally consist in an axiome, and therefore it belongs to the second part of Logicke: yet I will not now insist thereupon: because the arguments predicated in a distribution, are meerely the Causes themselues; and we cannot finde a compounded effect more cleerely resolved into its Causes, then in a distribution. In the first example of distribution before going, we find the matter informed, arguing the whole effect constituted by that matter In the second, we haue the specificall forme, informing each severall kinde, and arguing that whole effect, which comprehendeth both kindes. The Reader shall finde this answer fully explicated, and proved, Chap. 38. &c. in the matter of a distribution.
7 Aristotle doth acknowledge a division belongs to Logicke: Prior. cap. 31. but he makes it a Syllogisme; because [...]omething is alway concluded therfrom: though a weake one; because it pre [...]umes what it ought to proue. He doth [Page 145]acknowledge induction also. Top. lib. 8. cap. 2. lib. 1. cap. 12. Prior lib. 2. cap. 23. and by an induction hee vnderstands, a collection of all the singulars, to make the totall: therefore he doth acknowledge it in the present sence: but (according to him) it is one species, kinde, or forme of disputing, little differing from a Syllogisme: for thus he sayth of it: A Syllogisme, is for Logicians, an Induction for the multitude: Top. lib. 8. cap. 2. Secondly, It is an instrument more apt to perswade, more open, better knowne to sence: and is common amongst the multitude: but a Syllogisme hath greater force to vrge, and is more effectuall against them that are apt to gaine say: Top. lib. 1. cap. 12.
Therefore (according to him) division, and induction belong to the second part of Logicke; not to the first: and consequently, a distribution must be referred thither also: for both division and induction are comprehended, or implyed, in a distribution, according to Ramus.
A definition is, Ramus. when wee declare what a thing is.
Therefore a perfect definition, is nothing else, but a generall marke, or badge of the causes, which make the essence, or nature of the thing.
I haue a little to say touching this fourth seate; 8 for, I haue done enough in the last, to satisfie this: for, what appertaines to that, may be applyed to this. Aristotle doth acknowledge definitions, and that in the present sence too: but giues them a place in the second part, as wee shall see, cap. 35. &c. The arguments disposed in a definition, belong to the first part of Logicke: because as Thomas sayth 1. dist. 25. q. 1. art. 1. ad. 2 m. a definition, according to the intent thereof. doth l [...]a [...] to the knowledge of the thing definea: and this is the case with all axiomes whatsoeuer. The predicate in a definition belongs to the seat of causes, even in the iudgement of Ramus himselfe? for the predicate doth set out what the subiect, [Page 147]or thing defined is, and nothing can doe that, but the causes: therefore a definition deserues no other place in Logicke, but the seat of the causes.
Vpon these premises, we may wel conclude; these foure seats of arguments in question are superfluous; because Art hath given them place alreadie in the precepts fore going, therefore wee must not seeke it here. The second part of Logicke comes in the next ranke:
THE SECOND PART.
CHAP. XXIX. Of disposition, or iudgment.
Either to wee haue handled the first part of Logicke; called Invention. Ramus. Wee come now to the second, termed Iudgement: Iudgement is a part of Logicke, teaching the maner of disposing arguments, that we may iudge well: for every thing is to be iudged according to certaine rules of disposition. Hence this part of Logicke, is called, both Iudgement, and disposition: the same thing being signified by both termes.
THE substance of all this matter, 1 is already set down in the second chapter, and repeated heere, for the benefit of the Reader. There is no great difficultie in the parts, nor difference in the whole, from Aristotle: I haue shewed the consent of both Authors in the place aleadged, and I will now giue my opinion of the sence, of every thing that seemes not cleere enough.
[Iudgement Disposition] These words are vsed for the same thing, 2 and that fitly; for they are the same thing variously considered, the second intends the first, and the first proceeds from the second. The second is the fountaine: the first is the streame: and they make one continued thing. The first is the supreame, the second the subordinate end, and meanes vnto the supreame, in that respect they vary; and not otherwise.
[Apart] Logicke hath parts, even by it selfe: for the precepts thereof are of distinct natures, as members in the whole, and therefore we must so conceive of them. The precepts that are contained vnder this name, make a second part: for, the disposing of things doth suppose, that, the things themselues haue a being already.
[Disposing] These words, and the rest that follow, doe containe the whole shot, or generall summe that ariseth from all the precepts, belonging to this part of Logicke: and it signifieth, a ioyning together of distinct things in an orderly frame.
[Arguments] viz. Those single, or incomplexed termes whereof wee spake in the former part.
[Iudge] Iudgement, is an act of the vnderstanding, whereby we determine in our selues, that this or that is true, or false. This word sets out the end of those precepts which belong to this part of Logicke; namely, the thing they are fit for; and the profit we receiue by them.
[Well] That is, not doubtfully: but even as the things are in themselues: and this is the perfection of Iudgement.
This first and vniversall precept, may fitly be expressed in these terms.
- 1. Some precepts of Logicke, doe teach vs to dispose arguments fitly, that thereby wee might iudge of truth, and falshood cleerely, and certainely.
- 2. These precepts make vp a second part of Logicke.
Now wee vnderstand the grosse summe, wee shall the better know the particulars.
CHAP. XXX. Of the Division of Disposition.
IN this Chapter wee must divide a sunder, what we found together in the former; and so proceede, till we haue veiwed every severall precept.
Iudgement is
-
Axiomaticall.
Ramus.
- Dianoeticall.
By this sentence the precepts belonging to this part, 1 are devided into their severall kindes: and it is as much as to say: These precepts teach vs to frame arguments in an Axiom, & in a discourse, that thereby wee may iudge of truth, and falshood contayned in them both. These (I say) are severall kindes, because they be distinct manners of disposing. The first branch supposeth, that some speech may be called an Axiome, and that is true. In this place, the word Axiome signifieth no more, but a declaratiue, or pronouncing sentence. This kinde of speech deserues that name, because it is (in the nature therof) more excellent then any other speech of Man. An Axiome is thus defined.
An Enunciatiue speech, is that, Ramus. that containeth truth or falshood.
Wee haue this precept from Aristotle, 2 de interpre. cap. 4. He assignes it the first place, and well worthy; for truth and falshood is the first obiect of our iudgement, and belongs to all Axiomes whatsoever, and nothing but an Axiome containes truth and falshood.
[Speech] This word containes the essence or nature belonging to all Axiomes, and other speeches which are not Axiomes. In this place it signifies, the inward sentence of the minde, and the written sentence, as well as the sentence pronounced in words.
[Enunciatiue.] This word, importeth a species, or one kinde of speech: & restraines that word which is common to many, vnto that one kinde which belongs to this place. Enunciating, or Pronouncing implyeth, that speech is the Herald, and proclaimer of mans minde, and so it is indeede, by institution, not of it selfe. The signification of words, followes the intent of the speaker, and not otherwise: so saith [Page 155] Aristotle in the fourth Chapter alledged.
[Truth and falshood] These words, containe the proper, and formall being of every Axiome in common. Ramus makes truth and falshood a propertie belonging to every ax [...]ome: but Aristotle doth more, he placeth the primary nature of an axiome therein; and so he may well doe; for thereby all axiomes are made to differ from all other kindes of speech: If there be any other thing, that giues being to an axiome, from whence this propertie doth flow: either wee are not able to apprehend it, or want words to expresse it. I say, truth, or falshood doth make axiomes to differ from all other kindes of speech: for single termes, as Man, Peter, to run, to sit, &c. and all commanding, and intreating speeches, containe neither truth, nor falshood: as Aristotle hath well obserued, De interpre. Cap. 2.3.4.
Truth (in the iudgement of all Philosophers) signifies, the adequation of the thing, and our vnderstanding. [Page 156]Wherefore truth, is radically in the thing, and formally in the vnderstanding, and declaratiuely in a proposition. Wee must conceiue of falshood according herevnto.
Aristoile sayth thus too; 3 Speeches are then true, when they pronounce as a thing is in it selfe: De interpre. Cap. 9. Quare cum orationes & meta lib. 4. cap. 7. text 27. Cum enim convenit, &c. Thus Tho. 1. p. q. 21. art. 2. in cor. 1. dist. 46. q. 1. art. 2. ad 1 m. And so all Philosophers speake; I will giue you the words of Albertinus (a learned Schooleman) in stead of them all. That proposition (sayth he) is true, which is conformable to the thing pronounced of, and false if it be inconformable. fol. 265. col. 1.
A true axiome is Ramus.
- Contingent.
- Necessary.
Contingent, when it is in such sort true, that it may also at sometime be false. This is called opinion.
A necessary axiome, Ramus.is when it is alwayes true, and cannot be false. An axiome necessarily false, is called impossible.
Aristotle speakes wholly after this sort; 4 Euery proposition (sayth he) doth signifie something to be, either necessarily, or contingently. Prior. lib. 1. Cap. 1. And further, he sayth Poster. lib. 1. Cap. 33. That is necessary, that cannot be otherwise. Some things are true, and are, but may be otherwise. Opinion is concerning that, that is true, or false, but may be otherwise.
For the full explication of this point, we must first vnderstād, that axiomes are necessary, and contingent, by reason that the things whereof they pronounce are necessary, and contingent. Now, that is sayd to be necessary, that is so, and cannot be otherwise. This is simply, and after a sort. Simply, when the being of a thing is of, and by it selfe, and the causes thereof, so necessary, that [Page 158]the thing that is, hath its being wholy without relation to any other thing without it selfe. A thing is necessary by supposition, and after a sort, when it is by force of another, the first, is called necessary, simply, and properly: because it is wholy impossible it should be otherwise then it is, thus farre Aristotle meta. lib. 5. cap. 8. In the first sence, all Axiomes that pronounce of God, are necessary, either in their truth, or falshood. In the second sence, some propositions that pronounce of the creature be necessary, and some contingent in their truth, and falshood. I will shew you how or when.
Created effects, 5 (vpon supposition) are
-
Necessary
- 1. In their present being.
- 2.
When the next cause is determined to one
- Naturally,
- Efficiently
-
Contingent, when the next cause
- 1. Is indeterminate vnto doing,
- 2. Wants power for doing.
And a proposition, when it pronounceth of created effects, is true, or falseaccording hereunto; as wee shall more plainely see when wee come to shew the severall natures of Axiomes:
Every thing (sayth Aristotle) is necessarie when it is, and every thing necessarily is not, when it is not: but this necessitie, to not a necessitie simply. de interpre. cap. 9. Ergo. Quod.
I shall shew the truth, and vse of these precepts when I come to the speciall kinde of Axiomes in the next Chapter: therefore I forbeare it in this place, least I should hale in something before the time, or repeat what I haue sayd sufficiently already: therefore here I will end those things which belong to all Axiomes in common.
CHAP. XXXI. Of a simple Axiome.
An Axiome is
- Simple.
Ramus.
- Compound.
A simple Axiome is that, the band whereof is a Verbe.
1 ARistotle speakes wholly after this sort: An enuntiatiue speech is either simple, or compounded of those that be simple. A simple Enunciation, is a voyce that signifieth that something is, or is not, according to the diversitie of times: and he calleth these Axiomes one speech, because one thing onely is predicated of another. de interpre. Cap. 5. & 10.
Now wee haue the definition of a simple axiome, wee must vnfold it: It containeth three things. 1. The termes of it. 2. The extention of one terme to another. 3. The framing of [Page 161]those termes together. I call that a terme (sayth Aristotle) Prior. lib. 1. Cap. 1. into which the proposition is resolved, and they be three: viz. The predicate, The subiect predicated of, and the Verbe that comes betweene them: now the Verb of it selfe signifies nothing: but serveth to compound those things that cannot be vnderstood, till they be compounded: and therefore it is a perpetuall signe of things predicated, and subiected. Thus Aristotle hath taught vs De interpre. Cap. 3. The Verbe (in the cōmon language of the Schooles) is called the band, or couple: and that terme agrees well with this doctrine of Aristotle: for a band doth compose diuers things together. Ramus doth call the subiect, and the predicate, by the name of antecedent, & consequent: but very vnduely: for, the predicate doth not follow vpon the subiect; neither in the thing, nor in our apprehension. Those termes belong to some compound axiomes, as I shall shew in due place.
For further illustration, it is needfull for vs to know: that,
- Naturall,
- Identicall.
- Direct.
- Notnaturall
- Contrary to nature.
- Besides nature.
Identicall predication, is that which nature sayes must be: Direct is that which according to rature may be Contrary to nature, is when the subiect, and predicate are incompatible: when they abhorre one another (as we say.) Besides nature, when the predicate is vndecent for the subiect: or the subiect vndecent for the predicate. Thus the Iesuites haue taught vs in their Preface to Porphyrie. q. 1. art. 4. and that to very good purpose. Now predication, is taken in this place for naturall predication, not for that which is against nature: for predication against nature is a defection, no perfection in art: and consequently, when we meet with it in any discourse, we must reject it, or reforme it by art.
By verbe, 3 is meant a voyce or name that signifies a time, either present, past, or to come: whose office it is to compound the predicate, and subiect: or to seuere them, each from other. And this is so necessary, that no speech can be enunciatiue till that be added: as Aristotle hath duly remembred: Interpre. Cap. 3. & 5.
4 We may make try all of these precepts in this example:
Man is reasonable.
This sentence is an Axiome: be cause it containes truth or falshood. 2. It is a simple Axiome: because one thing barely, and vncompoundedly, is referred to another. 3. It hath three termes, viz. 1. Man. 2. Reasonable. 3. Is. Rationalitte is the predicate: because it is referred vnto man. Man is the subiect, because it receiueth rationalitie. Is serues as a band to tye them both together: from whence they receiue signification, and truth, or falshood. 4. This predication [Page 164]is naturall: because it agrees to both these termes to be thus ioyned together. 5. It is Identicall: because rationalitie belongs to mans essence.
When we say Socrates is prudent, we haue the like proposition, and a direct predication: be cause prudence sets out Socrates direstly, even as a straight line that is extended between two points. And so much for the first thing contained in the definition of a simple Axiome.
CHAP. XXXII. Of the severall kindes of simple Axiomes.
A simple Axiome is
- Generall.
Ramus.
- Speciall.
Generall, when the common cōsequent is generally attributed to the common antecedent.
[Page 165]A speciall Axiome is
- Particular.
- Proper.
A proper Axiome, is when the consequent is at tributed to a proper antecedent.
Particular, when the common consequent is particularly attributed to the antecedent.
1 ALl these precepts agree well with Aristotle: for he teacheth vs on this manner. A proposition is either vniversall, or particular, and in part. Prior. lib. 1. Cap. 1.2. interpre. Cap. 7. Top. lib. 2. Cap. 1. lib. 3. cap. 6. An vniversall is that, where the predicate is referred vnto all the subiect. A particular, is that wherein the predicate is referred vnto some part, not vnto all that is contained in the subsect. Thus sayth he Prior. lib. 1. Cap. 1. but more plainely at the end of that Chapter. Then (sayth he) the Predicate is referred vnto all, or the whole subiect, when as there is nothing in the subiect, vnto which the predicate is not [Page 166]referred. The same thing is taught by Atiaro. 1. sent. q. 5. lit. B. Wee doe then affir me vmversally, when there is nothing contained vnder the subiect, of which the predicate is not affirmed. That is an vniversall negation, when as there is nothing comprehended vnder the subiect, from whence the predicate is not remoued.
2 [Common] This word doth suppose, that, predicated and subiected arguments import things vniver sall, and singular, and in that it doth well. Aristotle hath the same thing, and that very plainely opened, de interpre. Cap. 7. These are his words, Some things are vniversall, other some singular. I call that vniversall which of the nature thereof is apt to be attributed to many: that is singular which is not so.
3 [Generally] A thing is predicated generally, when the totall being thereof is referred vnto all, or the whole subiect; Thus no common predicate can truly be attributed vnto the subiect. Wee cannot truly say all men is all living Creatures, as Aristotle hath [Page 167]well observed. De interpre. Cap. 7. A common thing is predicated of the subiect generally, when it is referred to all, or the whole subiect, so farre as the subiect can receiue it, and thus a common thing may truly be predicated of the subiect. Now in this case the axiome is generall, when the subiect importeth a thing common. It is singular, when the subiect importeth a thing singular, or particular; therefore in this sense, the definitions of a generall, and speciall Axiome are certainely true, and taught by Aliaco. 1. sent. q. 5. lit. M. in these words: When the subiect is sufficiently distributed by this word All, or some other that is equall thereto: then that proposition is sufficiently vniversall. A proposition is then sufficiently singular, when the subiect is a terme truly singular. I call that a singular terme (in proper speech) which cannot be affirmed of subiect; importing reall distinct things.
That we may fully vnderstand the nature of predications, 4 we must obferue (with Aristotle de interpre. cap. 7 [Page 168] & 10.) That, this word All when we find it in a proposition, it doth not signifie the vniversall predication it selfe: but is onely a note of predication: And further, these words All, or None, doe signifie no more, but an affirmation, and negation vniversally made. Accordingly herevnto, Thomas sayth, The predication it selfe is no more, but an absolute referring of a thing signified, vnto the subiect: as when we referre whitenesse to a man This word All, or None, doth but goe with the predication, and importeth an order of the predicate vnto the subiect. 1. p. q. 31. art. 3. in cor. In the like manner, he sayth; This word some, that makes a proposition to be particular, doth designe an vniversall, or common terme indeterminately; from whence it doth not determine the same, vnto this or that singular thing. Opusc. 48. De interpre. Cap. 8. By this (I hope) the nature of every predication is sufficiently cleered, and made easie to our vnderstanding.
It may be doubted, 5 whether Ramus and Aristotle doe agree in these precepts, [Page 169]and that for three reasons. 1. Aristotle makes some propositions indefinite. 2. He makes no proposition proper. 3. He doth not require any common terme vnto an vniversall predication. I answere, notwithstanding all this, yet they doe agree. And I doe so answer, because the opening of these three things, doth giue evident light vnto the nature of predications: a thing worthy our knowledge, for predication is the very Center, and life of Logicke: all that goes before, descends hither, and all that followes, flowes from hence.
To the first, 6 Arristotle doth not conceiue that an indefinite proposition, doth really differ from an vniversall, and particular. I shew it two wayes, first, He names it but once in all his writings (so faire as I can find.) Secondly, Hee makes a proper proposition to be indefinite, onely, because it wants the signes of vniversall, and particular predication. Prior lib. 1. Cap. 1. now the want of them doth [Page 170]not make a reall difference, as wee haue already heard by his owne words: againe, they may well be referred vnto vniversall, or particular: because the extension of predication, followes the intent of predicating: and it is not hard to shew, where himselfe makes a proposition to be generall, that wanteth the terms of all, & none.
To the second, 7 It is true, he makes no proposition to be proper (in expresse words) yet hee doth it in the thing: for, that proposition is contained vnder those, which he cals particular, for a particular proposition (formally) hath an vnlimmited subiect: but vertually it hath a singular thing for the subiect: when we say, some man is learned, wee assigne no man of certaintie, vntill we descend to a particular, as Plato, or Aristotle &ce. and this is a proper proposition according to Ramus: moreover, if he meant not to comprehend a proper proposition, vnder his particular proposition, then hee hath omitted one precept, essentiall to this Art: I say the [Page 171]doctrine of a proper proposition is essentiall to this Art: and I avow it even by the iudgement of Aristotle himselfe: for he doth vse them often, and must vse them oftner then any other: for, hee makes an individuall thing, a subiect that receiues all other arguments whatsoever; without which they cannot haue being, nor we any certaine knowledge: but we may not thinke, that he hath omitted it: for that is to charge him vndecently: (seeing he hath deserved so well) and against reason: because of the allegations alreadie made: to conclude, he doth giue instance of a contradiction in singular, or proper Axiomes de interpre. cap. 10.
To the third, 8 Aristotle doth require a common thing in vniversall predications, and a singular in singular predications, and thinkes it must be so: because the common, and singular nature of things, is the very first ground, and originall reason from whence predications must be vniversall, and singular: as wee finde by his [Page 172]owne words: de interpre. cap. 7. Here I will put an end to the second thing contained in the definition of a simple Axiome. Cap. 31.
CHAP. XXXIII. Of an affirmed Axiome.
IN this Chapter wee must discusse the maner how arguments are framed in a simple Axiome: 1 and then wee shall haue dispatched all that is contained in the foresayd definition. Now, that point is resolved in these words
An Axiome is
-
Affirmed.
Ramus.
- Denyed.
Affirmed when the band of it is affirmed Denyed when it is denyed.
2 Aristotle teacheth the same thing [Page 173](for substance) de interpre cap. 5. & 6. Prior lib 1. cap. 2. An Enunciatiue speech, is either affirmation, or negation. It affirmes when the predicate is affirmed of, or ioyned vnto the subiect. It denyeth, when the predicate is denyed of, or removed from the subiect. Wee haue the same thing in Aliaco. 1. sent. q. 5. lit. BB. Every affirmation, and negation, consisteth of a Noune, and a Verbe: without a verbe there is no affirmation, nor negation: and this I say: because the verbe [is] is referred vnto the subiect, as in this example, Socrates is lust. Socrates is not Iust. Here, the word is, and is not, is referred in the one, to him that is Iust: in the other to him that is not Iust. Thus farre Aristotle de interpre. cap. 10. Omnis affirmatio &c.—Hoc dico &c.
Ramus applyes this precept to all Axiomes whatsoever. 3 Aristotle makes affirmation, and negation proper to simple Axiomes: both say true, in the sense they intended, and both those sences doe agree well enough together: but Aristotles iudgement is [Page 174]more accurate, and Logicall, as wee shall see when wee come to compound Axiomes: therefore, for this time we will proceede.
[From hence] These words, 4 doe referre vs to the ground or reason from whence propositions are contradictory: namely, from their vniversall, and particular affirmation, and negation. Of them I say, if Ramus meant to referre vs to the next, and formall reason of contradiction; then this reference is true: but if they referre vs to the first, and originall ground of contradiction, then it is not true. Aristotle de interpre. cap. 6. doth referre vs to the things themselues which are subiected, and predicated, as to the first fountaine, and originall of contradiction, in propositions: Because (saith he) A thing that is, is pronounced not to be, and that which is not, as if it were, so also, something is [Page 175]affirmed to be after this, or that manner: and is not after that manner. At other times, some things are pronounced to be present, which are not present: therefore some thing that is affirmed, is denyed, and some thing that is denyed is affirmed, and thereby affirmation is opposed to negation, and negation to affirmation: which opposition makes contradiction. Thus farre he. If wee take both these Authors together, we shall see the whole reason of Contradiction.
Wee haue this sentence in Aliaco. 5 1. sent. q. 5. lit. M. A Contradiction (sayth he) is an affirmation of one thing, and the negation of the same: and this is as well of propositions, as of single termes. Aristotle doth fully agree with them both, When (sayth he) the affirmation of one thing, and the negation of the same, are opposed, then there is a Contradiction. De interpre. Cap. 6. Atque hoc esto, &c. Now we [Page 176]see what a Contradiction is, we must inquire further after the manner how one, and the same proposition is affirmed and denyed.
A Contradiction is
- Generall.
Ramus.
- Speciall.
Generall, when a generall negation, is opposed to a generall affirmation.
Speciall, when a particular negation is opposed to an vniversall affirmation, and contrariwise.
A proper proposition, is contradicted by a proper proposition.
Aristotle teacheth the same things, 6 but in different words. Propositions (according to him) are opposed as contraries, or contradictories. When a generall affirmatiue, is opposed by a generall negatiue, then they are opposed as contraries: but when the same predicate, is vniversally affirmed, in the one: and not vniversally, in the other, of the same subiect; then they are opposed as contradictories: [Page 177]de interpre. Cap. 7. A singular proposition is contradicted by a singular: as, Socrates is wise. Socrates is not wise, cap. 10. Perspicuum autem est.
A generall contradiction may be false in both parts. Ramus.
A speciall Contradiction cannot be true and false together, in both parts.
Aristotle hath the same precept, word for word; in the places last alledged.
These examples following, will set out the precepts of an Axiome, contained in this, and the former Chapter.
- 1. All men are learned.
- 2. No man is learned.
- 3. Some man is not learned.
- 4. Some man is learned.
- 5. Socrates is learned.
- 6. Socrates is not learned.
The first, is an vniversall affirmatiue. The third, is a particular negatiue; and the one doth contradict the other. The second, is an vniversall negatiue. [Page 178]The fourth, a particular affirmatiue: and they are opposed as Contradictories. The fift, is an affirmatiue proper. The sixt, is a negatiue proper; therefore, they also are Contradictories. The first, and second are opposed as Contraries. Ramus calls their opposition, a generall Contradiction.
Now I haue finished all that is contained in the definition of a simple Axiome, touching the disposing of Arguments. In the next place wee must see, how truth is contained in an Axiome.
CHAP. XXXIIII. Of simple Axiomes necessarily true in common.
IN the 30. 1 Chapter before going, all Axiomes are sayd to containe necessary, or contingent truth, or falshood: and thereby is implyed, that [Page 179]truth is contained in them variously, even according vnto the different kinde of Axiomes In the 31. Chapter, we haue divided Axiomes into simple and compound: therefore, we must (now) set downe, after what manner truth is in simple Axiomes; and thereby finish the precepts touching simple Axiomes. I thinke it sufficient to shew how, and in what case, a simple Axiome is necessarily true: for, thereby we shall know, how they containe a contingent truth: and when wee see how they containe truth, we shall be able to judge how they containe falshood.
In a necessary Axiome the Cōsequent is attributed to the Antecedent.
- 1. To all of it, Ramus. and alwayes.
- 2. By it selfe, and essentially.
- 3. Not only to all, alwates, & essētially But al [...]o first, of the whole, and enterchangably.
2 We finde this precept taken out of Aristotle, Poster. lib. 1. cap. 4. In which place he sayth thus.
In a necessary Axiome, the predicate is attributed to the subiect.
- 1.
To all, that is
- To all of it, not to some onely.
- At all times, not at some onely.
- 2.
By it selfe, that is,
- 1. As essential therto.
- 2. the predicate is in the subiect, et contra
- 3. It is not sayd of any other.
- 4. Even for it selfe, not by accident.
- 3.
Ʋniversally, that is
- Of all by it selfe, & as it is in it selfe.
-
It doth demonstrate the subiect
- first.
- In every part.
Now, 3 we haue the nature of a necessary simple Axiome fully layd out, wee should vnfold such termes as seeme doubtfull: but wee cannot doe [Page 181]that in this place: for, here we speake of them, in an vniversall notion, abstracted from all speciall kindes of simple Axiomes. Wee shall come to them in the sixe next Chapters; and then, we shall see the meaning, and vse of this generall precept.
CHAP. XXXV. Of simple Axiomes, necessarily true in speciall.
- Definitions.
- Distributions.
I Doe not finde this precept, either in Ramus, or Aristotle expresly, yet I bring it by the authority of them both. According to Ramus, every precept of Art, is a necessary axiome: but (according to him also) a Definition, and Distribution, are precepts of art; therefore, he must confesse [Page 182]they bee necessary Axiomes. The principles, and foundation of a demonstration, are necessary axiomes: in the iudgement of Aristotle. Poster. lib. 1. Cap. 2. But a Definition is a principle, and foundation of a Demonstration, even in the sentence of the same Aristotle, Poster. lib. 1. cap. 33. lib. 2. cap. 3. Therefore, according to him, every Definition is a necessary Axiome. Wee may argue the like from his authority, for a Distribution: for he inioynes him that makes a Definition, to distribute the thing defined into parts. Top. lib. 6. Cap. 1. and in framing his art of Logicke, he makes Distributions to be precepts, no lesse then Definitions. Lastly, though I had not their authoritie to avow this precept, yet I might bring it: because a Definition, and a Distribution haue the nature of a necessary Axiome, as we shall see when we examine them.
CHAP. XXXVI. Of a Definition.
IN this Chapter, we must see what a Definition is.
A Definition, is a simple Axiome, Ramus.wherein we declare what a thing is.
A definition is
- perfect. This containes the constituting causes onely.
- imperfect. This sets out the thing by other arguments also.
The first, is a Definition properly, the second, is called a Description.
THis precept is avowed by Aristotle. 1 He makes a Definition to be double, in the thing, though not in words. He sets out the nature of a definition, as Ramus doth. A definition (sayth he) is a sentence that signifies [Page 184]what the thing is. Top. lib. 1. Cap. 5. A notification of the essence, and doth explicate what a thing is. Poster. lib. 2. Cap. 3.
A Definition thus set out, must needs be a perfect one. In the first booke of his Topickes, and 4. Chapter, he hath these words; There is something that is proper, that signifies what a thing is: and some other, that doth not so signifie. The first is called a definition, the other is commonly called a thing proper: when it is attributed to the same subiect with the other. Now, in this latter place he speakes of a Definition that differs from the former. I say it differs. 1. In the name, he sayth, this name is but commonly given, he sayes not so of the former. 2. In this definition, the nature of the thing defined is set out, and more too: it is explicated by properties, that doe not declare the essence: and therefore, in all these places together, he makes one kinde of definition, that sets out the nature of the thing onely; and another that doth so, and more too: [Page 185]and consequently (according to him) a definition is perfect, and imperfect: and that in the sence and meaning of Ramus. Thomas teacheth the same thing expresly: A definition (sayth he) is either perfect, or imperfect, that comprehends the totall being of the thing, as it is constituted by all the causes. This expresseth some of these, and divers conditions also: and is called a description. 2. dist. 27 q. 1. art. 2. ad 9 m. In this place we speake of a perfect definition; and therefore vnto Thomas, I will ioyne. Aliaco: in him I finde chese words; A good description may be conuerted with the thing defined: not onely for one difference of time; but for all times whatsoever: so as, the predicate cannot possibly be severed from the thing defined. Quest de Resumpta. lit. Q. vnto them two, I will ioyne Richardus de Sancto victore: for, he is most full in explicating of a definition: De trinitate. lib. 4. Cap. 21. fol. 108. That a definition may be perfect, it ought to comprehend the totall; and onely essence of the thing defined: for, as [Page 186]it borrowes its name from the thing, so it ought to extend it selfe vnto the vttermost limits of the thing defined. Neither must it exceed it, it ought to agree vnto all, and onely vnto the thing defined, and so farre, that it may be converted into it selfe: Thus farre he. I might shew the same out of later Authors; but I spare that labour, because these, for their iudgement, may goe in stead of all; such is their learning, and antiquitie. Others say the same, and none doe dissent from them.
2 By these authorities we finde what a definition is, and thereby wee are resolved, that a definition is a necessary Axiome, in the sence layd downe Cap. 34. and consequently, wee see how to finde out a definition from other sentences: and to iudge of the truth of it when wee haue found it; But because all this doth shew vs the very secrets of nature, (as I may say) and they cannot be vnderstood, neither speedily, nor easily: therefore it will be very profitable; if I set out a definition by other notes, or markes [Page 187]that are better knowne to vs: that, when wee haue them altogether, the one will lead to the other: and both together will giue vs certaine knowledge of this roote, and originall of all knowledge: yea of that knowledge, whereby we know single termes in them selues, as Aristotle cales it: Poster lib. 1. cap. 3. Nos vero: and that knowledg is no lesse then Angelicall.
3 Aristotle hath done so much in the thing we seeke for, that the assistance of any other authors may seem needles, he shewes vs, positiuely how to know a perfect definition: and lest we should sorget, he shewes vs also, the naughtines, and faults in a definition, he doth the first in these termes.
1. A definition is constituted of the Genus and the differences: Top lib 1. cap. 8. namely the specificall differences whose office it is to make a difinition compleat: and to designe that which is more generall vnto one speciall kinde: and this it doth, by reason that they are taken from the proper forme of the things differenced, as the roote, and originall [Page 188]from whence they flow: in [...]e iudgement of Thomas. 1. p. q 29 a [...]. 3. ad 4 m. 1. dist. 25. q. 1. art. 1. ad 2 m.
2. In a definition, the end whereto the thing defined is referred, is not to be omitted. Top. lib 6 cap. 8.
3. A definition must be vniversall, and affirmatiue: Poster lib. 2. cap. 3.
4. He that defineth must vse words (so farre as he can) that shall be of cleerest sence: because, a definition is made for the getting of knowledg. Top. lib. 6. cap. 1.
4 Hee abounds in skoring vp the faults of an evill definition: I will bring some of them to further our vnderstanding. I will not bring all, least I be tedious. He referres them vnto two heads: viz. Obscuritie, and Superfluitie. The Obscurities are set downe Top. lib. 6 cap. 2. and they are 4 in number. First, when the thing defined (that admits divers sences) is not distinguished. Secondly, when it is exprest by a borrowed speech. Thirdly, when any words are vsed that bee [Page 189]rude, and vnproper. Fourthly, when the definition is so made, that we cannot find: how it differs from another that is contrary to it, or what the thing is, that is defined: for then it is like a picture that cannot be knowne whose it is, vnles it be shewed by writing. The superfluities of a definition are 6. He sets them downe in the third chapter of the same booke, and these they are. First, when one thing is repeated often. Secondly, when a definition is made of arguments that in nature doe follow, and in our knowledge are lesse knowne then the thing defined. Thirdly, when in the definition the thing defined is brought: cap. 4. Fourthly, if a superior be defined by an inferior. Fiftly, when more is brought in the definition then ought: cap 1. Sixtly, Euery thing is superfluous, that may be taken away, yet the rest that remaine doth make the thing defined to be evident; and declare the essence thereof. I will conclude in Aristotles words; by these things wee may sufficiently know when a definition, is rightly made, and when it is not. [Page 190]Top. lib. 6. cap. 3. and therefore I shall neede to say no more to set out the nature of a definition: or what maner of truth is contained in it. Perhaps some man will require mee to set forth, when a definition contains vntruth: but, I thinke that request needles: because every definition containes a necessary truth that followes these rules: and that is vntrue, which doth not obserue them: but, commits the faults against them.
Although these things may seeme sufficient to giue vs knowledge of a definition, 5 and the necessary truth thereof: yet, I thinke it very needfull to set downe a definition, and apply it to the rules alledged.
This is a definition in all mens iudgement. That it agrees to the former rules, is very manifest; for herein first, Life, and Rationalitie are attributed to all men; and at all times. [Page 191]Secondly, They are attributed, not by accident, or the application of a third: but, by themselues, in as much as the essence of Life, and Rationalitie (even of it selfe) hath a relation vnto man: and wee apprehend the one, by apprehending the other. Thirdly, Life and Rationalitie, are attributed vnto man vniuersally: that is, not onely vnto all men, and at all times: but, adaequatly: so as, all that is in Life, and Rationalitie, is sayd to belong to man: and all that is in man, is denoted, and set out by life, and rationalitie: the one is as large, and no larger then the other. Fourthly, They are attributed vnto man first: that is, they haue no reflexion, or relation to any thing before man: neither is man receptiue of any thing before life, and rationalitie: but, the first act that they doe, is to giue being to man: and the first being that man receiues is from life, and rationalitie. 5. Life, and rationalitie, even such as they are in themselues, such reference they haue vnto man: in so much that man is no more [Page 192]but an effect compounded of life and reason: and they no more but an effect resolued into all the causes: I say all the causes, for animalitie ioyned to rationalitie, comprehends all the causes in it. Whereupon the thing defined, exceeds not the definition; nor the definition is larger then the thing defined: but, they are convertible, wee may truely say, If man then a living Creature indued with reason; If a living Creature indued with reason, then a man; and both of them containe one, and the same truth.
Thus haue we done with the definition, we must come to a description next.
CHAP. XXXVII. Of a Description.
A description is a sentence which setteth out a thing, Ramus. even by other arguments.
THis precept is agreed on by all parties, 1 as the Reader may finde in the foregoing Chapter: therefore, we need not make doubt, whether it belongs to this art or no; It is reasonable cleere: therefore, a few words will prevent all doubtfulnesse in it.
[A thing] That is, 2 the thing described. Now, the thing described seemes to be of shorter scantling, then the thing defined. A singular, or individuall substance may be described: but not defined: for, so we heard from Aristotle in the foregoing Chapter: and he made it a law, that every definition must be vniversall, but that proposition where an individuall thing is subiected, is not vniversall.
[Other Arguments] These words doe containe the formall nature of an imperfect definition. 3 The word argument, importeth an affirmatiue predication in a description: for dissenting arguments cannot describe, nor define: no not in the most vnperfect manner: for defining, how imperfect so ever it is, must needs import, that the thing is in some sort or other: but, dissenting arguments doe not serue in the least sort to set out what a thing is. They haue force to shew what a thing is not, and no more. The word other, doth signifie, that the arguments whereby a thing is described, are mixed: and are partly essentiall, partly without the essence. Where wee must know, that, the more neere arguments be vnto the essence, the more force they haue to set out the thing described: and the more truely that sentence wherein they are predicated, may be called by the name of a Definition.
Here it may be doubted, 4 whether a Description may be made in any [Page 195]part by accidents? I answer: No accident (as it is an accident) hath place in a Definition: and I thinke so; because, Aristotle doth perpetually forbid accidents to come within the dores of any Definition. An accident (according to Aristotle) may in some respects, and at some time become proper: and in that case, they may serue to describe an individuall subiect: as this, or that singular man may be made knowne to vs, and differenced from all others, by riches, learning, &c. which he inioyes and none other.
Now we see what arguments are disposed in a description: 5 and how they are referred the one to the other; it remaineth, that, I declare what truth there is in it. In a Description there is a necessary truth. I say necessary truth, not of constitution (for that is proper to a perfect definition, where the thing defined, and the definition doe Constitute each other, and is adaquatly the same thing: according to the sentence of Thomas, 1. dist. 25. q. 1. art. 1. [Page 196] ad 2 m.) But, of emanation, effluence, and consecution in as much as, the arguments describing, are (at least) so proper vnto the thing described, that they come convertible therewith: and it cannot but be so; for, if the properties doe belong to the species, or the whole kinde, then they are necessary emanations from the principles of nature, belonging to that kind: and therefore, they stand, and fall together. If the properties appertaine to an individuall, then they haue a necessary connexion therewith, thorough a peculiar right, and possession.
I will adde an instance or two, 6 and thereby the nature, and truth of this precept will be made evident, and cleere.
In this sentence, man abstracted from individualitie, (that is, not considered as this or that particular man) [Page 197]is described: all the words that follow the Verbe [is] containe the description; These two terms, viz. mortall, and capable of learning, are ioyned together by that Verbe, and thereby the description is affirmatiue. The word living Creature is essentiall to man: for, it is the whole shott, (as I may say) or comprehension of all the parts of his nature in generall. The words capable of learning, import a thing proper vnto mankinde, that is, as he is formally this kinde of Creature, which we call man: and therefore, that attribute bordreth next of all to mans particular essence. The word mortall, importeth an accident, now made proper to man. I say it is an accident, and no more; because, it flowes not from the principles of his nature. Mans reasonable soule, is the chiefe thing in his being: but mortalitie flowes not from that: for, the soule is living, so sayth the Lord: He breathed in his face the breath of life, and he became a living soule, Genesis. 2.7.
Mortalitie is now proper to all men, because they all, are subiected to death; I say, it is proper to them all, not because they doe, and must dye: but because all of them, and none but them must dye after that sort (that is) by accident. All other Creatures are subiect to dissolution by that nature which they had from God by Creation: but man is subiect to death by imposition: he incurred his mortalitie when he sinned. God threatned it before man sinned. Genesis 2.17. and inflicted it when man had sinned. Rom. 5.12. But that had never beene, if the principles of mans nature had inclined, and fitted him to mortalitie. This being so, we may well conclude; mans mortalitie is very little distant from mans nature. And consequently, this proposition is a definition somewhat vnperfect.
There is a necessary truth in this Description: 7 for, the thing defined, and that wherewith it is defined, are convertible: the sentence is equally [Page 199]true, which wayes soever you take it, if it be read as it lyeth, all men will grant it; if we invert the parts, and say thus, Every living Creature that is mortall, and capable of learning is man: no man will deny it. But this truth is not constitutiue: for, mortalitie and capacitie vnto learning (as they are conceived by themselues, and as they are in themselues) haue no share in mans essence; but is a thing flowing therefrom: and were it not for a third thing that comes betweene them, they might, and might not, belong to man any wayes. This truth is necessary by emanation, and consecution: for, take man as he is a man, he must needs be reasonable, as he is reasonable, he cannot but be capable of learning: take him as he is now a man, and he must needs be mortall: for, he sinned, and God imposed mortalitie vpon him.
We haue another example of a Description, 8 in the 2 Epistle to the Thessalonians, the 2. Chapter, and 3. verse, &c. which fitteth this place well. [Page 200] Antichrist (an individuall) is sayd to be a man of sinne, the sonne of perdition, an outlaw, &c. Now, all these be accidents, yet they become proper vnto him, in that sense wherein the holy Ghost meant them: and that description containes a truth so necessary, that we may certainely know, that he is Antichrist who is a man of sinne, &c. in that sense which the holy Ghost intended in that place. This shall suffice to set out the nature of a description: and thus haue we finished the whole matter touching a Definition.
CHAP. XXXVIII. Of a Distribution.
THe next thing that comes to be handled, is a distribution: that is defined, or set out in this one generall apprehension.
A distribution, Ramus.is a simple proposition, wherein the whole is devided into parts.
[Page 201]The whole, is that which containeth the parts.
A part, is that, which is contained of the whole.
Aristotle and other Logick Schooles haue left vs these precepts also: 1 as we shall see by the particulars: Aristotle requires, that the thing defined, be distributed into parts: Top. lib. 6. Cap. 1 Rursus vtrumque, &c. cap. 2. Idem Contingit, &c. Therefore (according to him) a distribution is then made, when the whole is divided into parts. He sayth further; a whole is no more but a gathering together of the parts. Physicor. lib. 1. text. 17. lib. 4 text 43. And againe, That is sayd to be a whole, that wants no part of that of which it is sayd to be a whole: either by nature, or as a thing containing that which is contained: so as, they all doe make one certaine thing: meta. lib. 5. Cap. 25. text 31. According to Thomas, that is a whole, which is divided into parts. 1. p. q. 76. art. 8. in cor. These Authors doe not tell vs, what a part is conceived apart [Page 202]or abstracted from specialties: neither need they, for that is done sufficiently already when they tell vs what a whole is; and the same thing will better appeare, when wee come to the particulars: therefore I proceed.
A distribution, is of the
- Genus into the Species.
- Integrall into the members.
The integrall, Ramus.is a whole to which the parts are essentiall.
The Genus, is a whole that is essentiall to the parts.
I finde no dissent betweene any parties touching this precept, 2 that the Genus, and the Integrall, be wholes, (and in that sence which is now given) is confessed on all hands. I will alledge Aristotle: A whole, sayth he, is twofold, viz. Vniversall; or a totall existeney. meta. lib. 5. Cap. 25. text 31. And Thomas goes along with him: A whole (sayth he) is either an vniversall, or an Integrall. 1. p. q. 77. art. [Page 203]1. ad 1 m. According to Aristotle, An vniversall whole, is also Equivocall, or vnivocall. The first, when the name onely is common, but the things named be divers: so a man himselfe, and a picture is called a living Creature. The second, when the name is common, and the things named are the same. Categor. Cap. 1. We take an vniversall whole in this last sence. Now, Aristotle in the place of his Metaphysicks last alledged, doth call that such a whole, as is one to every part; as a living creature is to a man and a beast: in the like sort speakes Thomas in the place last alledged; these are his words: An vniversal whole, is present to every part, according to the whole essence, and power thereof as a living Creature, is to a man, and a beast; and therefore it is predicated properly of the singular parts: but an Integrall whole is not in each part, neither according to their whole essence, nor vertue, and therefore it is no wayes predicated of the singular parts; no not of them all together, vnlesse it be very improperly. Thus farre he: Aristotle [Page 204]in the place alledged calls this whole, one thing that ariseth of the parts; and thereby agrees with Thomas: By these allegations we haue this precept agreed vpon, and made plaine; therefore we may proceed to the severall kindes of Distributions.
CHAP. XXXIX. Of the kindes of Distribution, and first of the Generall into the Specialls.
IN handling the severall Distributions, 1 it is not greatly materiall, either to art, or the things themselues; that we beginne with the one rather then with the other: but in my opinion, the distribution of the Genus into the Species ought to haue the first place; because it is first in nature, and obiected first to our vnderstanding, being a comprehension of the particular kindes; therefore, I will begin with that.
Neither of our Authors hath this precept expresly: yet this place, 2 doth require it, and their doctrine, and practice avowes it, therefore, without further labour, I will proceed to the vnfolding thereof.
[Divided] This word is made proper to this distribution, by the common phrase of Logicians. The meaning of it is, The generall is divided into the specials, if wee inquire how it is devided to them? it may be answered, It is divided two wayes. First, In it selfe, being applyed vnto, or (as I may say) bestowed vpon, each kinde: (not in the totall latitude thereof; but so farre, as one can receiue it). Secondly, Each speciall kinde containes no more then is included in the generall, what is explicitly in any one of the kindes, is implicitly in the whole: what is dilated in that, is thrust together in this.
[Severall kindes] The parts devided are called severall: 3 because they be severed by distinct formes. They are called kindes; because both of these distinct formes are one, and the same thing in the generall, or vniversall, wee shall see the truth, and evidence of this precept (thus vnderstood) in this instance.
This sentence, is a simple axiome; because, one thing, is ioyned to another, by a verbe. I say one; for though the branches of the predicate, be two, being referred to themselues; yet they are but one, when they are referred to the subiect.
[Living Creature.] 4 Is the whole that is divided. 2. It is an vniversall whole. 3. The parts into which it is divided, are reasonable, & vnreasonable Creatures. 4. This whole, is bestowed vpon both parts; because the reasonable, and vnreasonable Creatures, (each [Page 207]of them apart) are truly sayd to be living Creatures. 5. Neither the vnreasonable, nor reasonable Creatures haue any thing essentiall to them more then is contained in animalitie: for, that word importeth no more, but such a thing, made by God, as hath life, and motion in it selfe. Now, that includeth a corporall substance, and a spiritualitie, called life: This as the forme, informing the matter: That as the matter informed. The reasonable Creature hath no more: thus he hath a bodie made liuely by his soule, and that is the matter informed. He hath a soule, or life, and that is the forme informing. We finde the like in the vnreasonable Creatures, they haue a bodie, wherein their life remaines: this corporall substance is the matter informed, and that life is the forme informing. 6. These doe differ in their kindes, (I say) in their kindes, and not numerically; because, they haue different kindes of corporeall substances: so the holy Ghost pronounceth of them. 1. Cor. 15. and [Page 208]so we finde by experience. The flesh of man and beasts doe differ in their proper being, and Gods destination: for, the one is made to perish finally, the other to rise againe. These Creatures doe differ also in their life or liuelines: the life of beasts is no more, but as breath that doth vanish at their dissolution: Mans life is more: for, his soule is life; being a living, continuing, and spirituall substance: and no doubt, but that spirituall substance, is informed by a liuelihood, differing therefrom (though our vnderstandings cannot but ghesse at it) 1. because wee finde a secret motion of mans vnderstanding, and will in his soule, differing from the spirituall substance thereof. 2. Because mans soule liues when it is parted from the body.
It may be some will obiect on this sort; 5 If the species containes no more then is in the Genus, then the specificall difference is also contained in the Genus: but this last is not true: therefore, the first is vntrue also.
I answer: I grant the assumption; vpon Aristotles authoritie, and proofe alledged before in the poynt of the Genus. But I deny the consequence; because it doth suppose, that the specificall difference, is a reall being, constituting the species: but that is vtterly vntrue. If that were so, then it is a cause different from the matter, forme, and end. But the last is not true: and this I take as granted: therefore, the first is vntrue also; and consequently, the argument is so too, that is founded therevpon. The specificall difference, is a rationall entitie and no more; namely, our vnderstandings doe apprehend this kinde, to differ from another, when they are both layd together. Now, this apprehension is a veritie, no fiction: for, it hath a foundation in the thing: namely, the specificall forme, our vnderstanding doth thus argue: This hath one kinde of forme, that hath another, therefore this doth specifically differ from that. And thus the specificall difference doth flow from [Page 210]the forme, it is not the specificall forme it selfe. Hitherto wee haue shewed what arguments are disposed in this kinde of Distribution: and the manner how they are disposed; now I will declare that it containes a necessary truth: and I may easily doe that, for it fully agrees with the rules of necessary truth, set downe Chap. 34. as will appeare by laying them herevnto.
1. 6 The parts doe belong to the whole, even to all of it, and at all times; there is no animalitie more then is comprehended in the Creatures, reasonable, and vnreasonable. We cannot conceiue a time, wherein the Creatures reasonable, and vnreasonable are not liuing Creatures: and therefore the first Rule agrees with this Distribution.
2. The Creatures, reasonable, and vnreasonable, are living Creatures, even by themselues, and their owne nature: there is no third thing that comes betweene their nature, and the nature of a living creature, that makes [Page 211]the one belong to the other: but, they are so living creatures by themselues, that the one is essentiall to the other: therefore, this Distribution agrees with the second Rule.
3. The Creatures, reasonable, and vnreasonable, even in that thing wherin they are, they are living creatures; so also, even in that nature wherein their being doth consist vniversally, they are living Creatures: yea, and this their nature, wherein they are, they are the first thing in living creatures; we cannot conceiue any thing in the essence of the Creatures, reasonable, and vnreasonable, that exceeds the essence of a living Creature. Neither can we imagine, in any signe, or moment of reason, that there is any thing in the essence of a living Creature, which hath the prioritie, or is before the essence of the creature reasonable, and vnreasonable. I say before, either in nature, or time: but in the first moment wherein you conceiue a living Creature to be: you conceiue a creature, either reasonable, [Page 212]or vnreasonable: Wherevpon animalitie and these creatures are conuertible. All living creatures, conceived as making one totall summe, is no larger in number, then the Creatures reasonable, and vnreasonable; and contrariwise. So also we may say; If a Creature reasonable or vnreasonable, then a living Creature: If a living Creature, then reasonable or vnreasonable. And consequently, all the lawes of necessary truth agree vnto this Distribution.
If any desire to know, 7 when a Distribution of this kinde, is false: let him lay it to these rules, and by them he shall know. If it agrees not with these rules, but comes short, in any part; then it is false. And the more it disagrees from them, the lesse truth there is in it. Here I will end the distribution of the Genus, into the species.
CHAP. XL. Of the distribution of the whole into the members.
IN this Chapter we must see, 1 what a Distribution of the Integrall into the members, is.
I must say of this precept, as I did of the last; The doctrine, and practice of Aristotle, and Ramus doth patronize it; therefore, we may take it for a precept of art, though they haue it not in so many words; the opening thereof, will say, it came from them.
In this Distribution: 1. 2 The whole is an individuall. 2. That whole is severed into peeces, as the timber is by the saw, or wedges. 3. The parts haue different, and individuall natures. [Page 214]4. The whole is made by their meeting together; therefore this second kinde of Distribution differs really from the former.
This one example will make the sence plaine, and easie.
A man hath two parts,
- Soule.
- Bodie.
This proposition is a simple axiome: for, one thing is, attributed to another. I say one; because, both members, viz. soule and body be one in reference to man: though they be distinct in themselues. 1. Man is the whole divided, (to wit) an individuall man. 2. This whole is shared, one peice to the bodie, another to the soule. 3. The body and soule haue distinct individuall natures, the one corporeall, the other spirituall. 4. The meeting of these two parts together, doth make man, as he is an individuall whole: the soule in forming the body, and the body being informed by the soule. This shall suffice to shew, what arguments be in this distribution: [Page 215]and the manner how they are framed together.
This kinde of distribution containes a necessary truth: because the lawes of necessary truth agree to it.
1. Soule and body are affirmed of all men severally, and at all times, without exception. 2. Bodie, and soule are referred vnto a singular man, by themselues, and their owne essence: not by the force of any third. 3. The soule, and body, in what respect they are, and in the very essence, as they are: they are affirmed of a singular man. I say affirmed, both vniversally according to the totall nature of themselues: and according to the essence of a singular man. So as the essence of a singular man, and the essence of soule, and bodie, are of equall extent: the one is as large, and no lesse large then the other: so also, this their nature, is affirmed of man in the first instant, and moment of his being; and our apprehension. Wherevpon this whole, and parts, are in their nature convertible. Thus wee [Page 216]may say, If a man, then soule, and bodie. If soule, and bodie, then a man. These things being so, wee may vndoubtedly say, this kinde of distribution containes a necessary truth: and therewithall put an end vnto this precept in hand.
To conclude, I haue this to say ioyntly, of these precepts touching a Definition and Distribution: their vse is not knowne to the negligent, nor esteemed of the ignorant: but, he that knowes them, and hath found the benefit of them, will say, they are worth the having: for, by them a man may know when a Definition, and Distribution containe a necessary truth; and an artificiall forme: and consequently, he hath a good guide to lead his reason in the right way vnto true knowledge, and the avoyding of error.
CHAP. XLI. Of contingent simple Axiomes.
THat I may put a finall Conclusion, 1 to all the precepts that belong vnto simple Axiomes, I must shew what arguments are disposed in them, how they are disposed, and what truth is contained in such simple Axiomes; as are neither definitions, nor distributions; and touching them we say,
Full Comparisons are iustly excepted, out of simple axiomes, because they containe foure termes distinctly layd, the one to the other, no wayes made one by any Coniunction.
By arguments, is meant single arguments, [Page 218]for all the foure causes together, and essentiall properties, belong not to simple axiomes of this sort; they are proper to definitions and distributions.
We shall finde necessary truth or falshood in all such axiomes as pronounce of a thing either as it is in present being; 2 or as it is past. I say necessary truth, not simply; but after a sort; because, the thing that is, or is not, that was, or was not, cannot but be, when it is; nor but not be, when it is not: as Aristotle hath truely observed, De interpre. Cap. 9.
Simple axiomes that pronounce of a thing to come, 3 containe a certaine truth, or falshood; in respect of God: for, he foreknowes all things possible by his simple intelligence: and all things that shall be, by his intuition or knowledge of vision. In respect of mans knowledge, none of those Axiomes do containe a certaine truth; for vnto man, all future things are contingent, and consequently mans knowledge of them must needs also [Page 219]be contingent: vnto Man (I say) they are contingent: for as much as, their next causes whervpon they depend, are contingent. All humane actions depend vpon mans will, as their next cause, and mans will is a facultie free, and indetermined vnto one: and therefore contingent All other things, not humane, are also contingent: because, their next cause may be hindered in their execution. Man is at Gods dispose, and all the other Creatures are at Gods, and mans. These axiomes may containe a contingent truth, in respect of man, and that is all he can haue of them. And here a finall end for simple axiomes.
CHAP. XLII. Of compound Axiomes in generall.
COmpound Axiomes come now to be handled; their generall nature may be expressed in this proposition: [Page 220] ‘A compound axiome is that, Ramus.the band whereof is a coniunction.’
So Ramus, 1 and thus Aristotle. A speech compounded of simple Axiomes, is made one, by a Coniunction, de interpre. In which words he doth acknowledge. 1. Some axiomes are compounded axiomes. 2. Such axiomes are compounded of simple Axiomes. 3. They are made one by that composition. 4. Their parts are tyed together by a Conjunction: therefore, he delivers the same precept with Ramus, and vnfolds the meaning of it.
Thus farre Aristotle went: but never further (for any thing that I can finde:) yet may we not say therefore, that his Logick is an imperfect art: because it may be all his writings are not come to our hands; If that be so, then time hath done iniury both to him and vs. I thinke rather, he omitted compound axiomes of purpose. If he did so, he had good reason for it: for, the precepts of simple axiomes giue light enough to shew vs how to [Page 221]iudge of these: for these being compounded of them, they must needs be the foundation of these: and consequently, he that can iudge truely of them, cannot be ignorant of these. Neither may we accuse Ramus of a superfluitie in art; for, reason avowes his deed also; because, these precepts are convenient, and make the knowledge, and vse of this art more easie. 2. Learned men of all ages haue vsed such axiomes as he calls compound: therefore, he might make the precept; of them to be parcell of this art, seing vse, and experience is the mistris of art. The one did well in omitting; because, he tyed himselfe to exactnes. The other did well to bring them in, because, he regarded precedent custome, and future ease. We will goe with Ramus alone; because, we cannot haue Aristotles company.
[Axiome] This word doth put vs in minde, that, 2 these propositions 1. Haue arguments framed in them. 2. They are framed in these, in a fashion differing from simple axiomes, [Page 222]from whence they are called compound. 3. They containe truth, or falshood: for such is the condition of all axiomes whatsoever.
[That] This word implyeth, 3 that, a compound axiome, is but one proposition, or enuntiation, as Aristotle calls it.
[Band] This word giues vs to vndestand, 4 that, in compound axiomes we shall find two distinct things tyed together: and in this, they ioyne with simple axiomes.
[Coniunction] By this word wee know, the band of a connext axiome is, a coniunction: and herein stands a maine, and principall difference between simple, & compound axioms; they had a verbe; these haue a coniunction, to tye their parts together. In a simple axiome, we found a predicate, and subiect: in these, we finde parts tyed together, but no name for them: we must seeke for that in the particular axiomes themselues. This is another reall difference betweene simple, and compound axiomes: thus [Page 223]farre, for their generall nature. This generall is thus divided.
CHAP. XLIII. Of a Copulatiue Axiome.
A compound Axiome is
-
Congregatiue,
- Copulatine.
-
Connexiue.
Ramus.
-
Segregatiue,
- discrete.
- disjunct.
THis Definition, 1 doth send vs to seeke an enuntiatiue sentence, whose parts are tyed together by this word And. But a little labour will not finde it; yea, it seemes vnpossible ever to be found: for, this word, is very vnfit so to tye the parts of a sentence [Page 224]together, that thereby one argument should set out another: and truth, or falshood be pronounced: seing it doth neither affirme, nor infer, nor any wayes serue for those ends. It may be, his Copulatiue axiomes bee contained in such sentences as these be;
Christ dyed, and rose againe.
Without, shall be dogs, and sercerers, and murtherers, and whoremongers, and Idolaters, &c.
Both these propositions be compound, according to Aristotle; for, each of them is made one by a Conjunction: they may be called Copulatiue, because that Conjunction is Copulatiue. The forenamed axiomes are compounded of simple axiomes. The first, of two axiomes; the other of fiue. But (according to Ramus) both of them be simple, because their band is a verbe. Neither of them a compound; for their Conjunction [Page 225]tyes not the parts of the proposition together; for, it neither affirmes, nor inferres truth, or falshood. It tyeth one part of the Axiome together, and makes it one by the knitting together of divers parts, and no more. If we take a veiw of them as they lye, wee shall see all these things plainely.
In the first instance, 2 Christ is the subiect, death, and resurrection, are made the predicate: both of these are ioyned together by the word And: and thereby they are made one; that is, not one thing: but one truth together. This one predicate, is referred vnto that subiect, by the verbe that is included in them both, in the truth of the thing, the first containes two axiomes. Christ dyed, Christ did rise from death, and we finde the same truth in them both, being taken apart, that we doe, when both the predicates are put together into one axiom. The same is the case with the second, when it stands in due forme, thus: ‘Whoremongers, I dolaters, Lyers, &c. haue no right to heaven.’
In the truth of the thing, this is a simple axiome, as the former was: the predicate damnation, is referred to the subiect Whoremongers, &c. by a verbe: the subiect consisteth of divers parts, distinct betweene themselues, Whoremongers, I delaters, &c. all those parts are made one by the word And. I say one, not in themselues: but in the truth of this proposition, so as, if wee referre damnation to them all ioyntly, it containes a certaine truth. If that predicate be referred vnto Whoremongers alone, Lyers alone, &c. each one of them doe containe a truth, no lesse certaine, and vndoubted.
This precept is made evident, 3 by either of the examples alledged. If I say damnation belongs not to whoremongers, [Page 227]Christ suffered not death; I put an expresse Contradiction to them both, if these be true, those be false. If they be true, these be false: but, this Contradiction is the same with simple axiomes: for, one, and the same predicate, is denyed of one, and the same singular subiect: therefore we may conclude, these sentences are compound Copulatiue propositions in their present forme; but simple propositions in the truth of the thing. If you take them, as men doe speake them, then they are cōpound: if you take them as men ought to speake, then they are simple. And this shall suffice for Copulatiue axiomes.
CHAP. XLIIII. Of connexe Axiomes.
A Connext axiome comes next: the nature whereof may be thus set out.
This kinde of Compound axiome, 1 is easie to be found, and fitly thus named: It is in frequent vse amongst men, and the nature of it consisteth in composition. There are presidents of it that seeme much to differ, I will propound examples of them both, that the matter may be fully opened.
- 1. If in this life we inioy all our happinesse, then we onely are miserable.
- 2. If righteousnes be by the law, then Christ dyed in vaine.
These propositions are compound (according to Aristole and Ramus too) for, 2 each of them are made one by a coniunction, that so tyes both the parts together, that, they containe such truth, as the parts doe not, when they are taken in sunder, and each one by it selfe. Secondly, They are compounded [Page 229]of simple Axiomes. In the first, we haue these two: first, All our happines is in this life. Secondly, We onely are miserable. In the second we haue the like. First, Iustice is by the Law. Secondly, Christ dyed in vaine. Lastly, these 2 simple Axiomes are made one proposition, by the coniunction; If, and Then, I say they are one, not by mixture but by voyce: that pronounceth the latter certainely to be, where the former is.
These compound axiomes, 3 are called Conditionall, in the common phrase of the Schooles; because, the first part is put Conditionally, not absolutely: but (I thinke) the terme of Connex, is more fit: because, the latter part is inferred from the former, and therefore it is made to haue a being together with the former: and consequently, it is annexed, and knit vnto the former.
The parts knit together in this kind of axiomes, are named Antecedent, 4 and Consequent: and they are so in themselues: for, the first in place, is [Page 230]the first in nature, and our apprehension: else it could haue no force to inferre the second. The second followes the first, and receiues its being therefrom: All arguments may be disposed in this axiome, that haue place in a simple axiome: because, this serueth to conclude all questions, that may be concluded by a simple axiome: so also they may be disposed in the same manner in this, that they may in a simple, (that is) Consenting arguments affirmatiuely, and Disenting negatiuely.
The inference, that this rule containes, is most certaine, and vndoubted: [Page 231]The antecedent part of it, is agreed vpon in the Schooles. I will avow it by two Authors of Credit, and they shall be in stead of all. The first of them is Gregorie de Arim lib. 1. dist. 42 q. 2. art. 1. in aecisio questionis. Conditionall speeches may be true, and their parts false. These are his words, and they imply, that, the truth of Condition all speeches, depends vpon their connexion, not their parts. The second is Alvarez. de Auxilijs, disp. 72. n o. 5. ad 3 m, There is required vnto the truth of a Conditionall proposition, that the Consequent follow vpon the Autecedent. Whether the Antecedent be the adaequate Cause of the Consequent, or an effect thereof, or a Condition presupposing another Cause. It is enough, if the Consequent followes by vertue of that Condition. Thus farre his words; and they are so plaine, and so full, that, we can require no more authoritie for this question: yet that I may conceale nothing, that may giue light vnto this maine, and important rule, I will proceed a little further.
We must vnderstand: The Illation or Consequence of a Connexe, or Condstionall proposition, is either formall, or materiall. The sentences alledged out of Gregory and Alvarez, are vnderstood of formall Illation. Now, in such there is alwayes a necessary truth, and no contingency. A materiall Illation is, when the consequent goes with the Antecedent: yet so as it followes the same, not by force thereof. We finde these propositions in conditionall promises, and in the iudgements that wee giue of future things, that depend vpon the libertie of mans will. These Illations being pronounced by God, haue alwayes a necessary veritie: for, he cannot deny himselfe: therefore he keepes his word Iustly. Mans will is subiected to Gods dominion, therefore he will determine it to one. His power is infinite, therefore he cannot be defeated: but these propositions being pronounced by man, doe containe (at the best) but opinion, contingent, and coniecturall knowledge. Thus much out of Alvarez de Auxilijs disp. 7. no. 7. &c. And Suarez, opusc. 2. [Page 233] lib. 2. cap. 5. no. 8. &c. Where the Reader shall finde these things proued, and vnfolded to the full.
This precept is very needfull, for thereby we know how to apply an answer for the refutation, and disproofe of such a proposition. By this also, we know what we must proue, when wee would avow a connext axiome: namely, not the parts themselues; but the following of the later vpon the former. If this opposition to a connex axiome may with reason be called a contradictiō in any sence, then in this art it may goe for a Contradiction indeed: but I doubt whether in reason it may be so called or no: because, the whole band that tyes the parts of this axiome together, [Page 234]is not denyed: and Consequently, there is not an opposition made of one proposition vnto the same proposition: for one thing is not severed from that subiect, vnto which it was ioyned: but onely the same thing is denyed to follow, which was once affirmed to follow: and these things may suffice to set out the nature of a connext axiome.
Before I make a full end of this precept, I must shew what affinitie, or rather foundation, a connexe axiome hath with a simple. I may truely say, a simple axiome, and this compound differ nothing but in the manner of pronouncing. Men vsually speake in a connexe forme, because the manner is more familiar in many things: but they should speake in the forme of a simple axiome, in the exactnes of art: therefore, we may resolue these into them: as I will shew by the instances alledged.
The first example of a connexe axiome, viz. If in this life onely &c. may be reduced vnto a simple axiom [Page 235]in every mans iudgement: because, it hath but three termes in it: but in truth, it is somewhat difficult whether it may be so reduced or no: because, it pronounceth of some kinde of men, not vniversally of all: yet it may be done truely, and plainely, if we first know, that the antecedent part ought to be set downe in these words: They that haue no happinesse but in this life, and here they haue [...]. I say, these last words must be added: because, the Connext axiome doth suppose them, and therevpon inferres the Consequent: which otherwise it could not doe. Those words being added, we may bring this Connext axiome, and the Apostles whole disputation therefrom, into this simple forme.
They that haue no happinesse but in this life, and here, they haue name, they onely are miserable.
But we onely are not miserable.
Therefore we haue some happinesse which is not in this life.
The other Connext proposition, viz. If righteousnes be by the &c. is yet more difficult: yea so difficult, that, if we take it as it lyes, it is not to be reduced vnto a simple for me: for it containes two propositions every way distinct: and therefore, it hath foure termes, viz. 1. Righteousnes. 2. Law. 3. Christ. 4. Vaine: but if we take the Apostles whole disputation together, and frame it according to art, it will easily make a simple forme: for thus the Apostle disputeth.
They that maintaine this sentence, Iustice comes by the Law, they must maintaine this sentence also, Christ dyed in vaine.
But no man may say, Christ dyed in vaine.
Therefore no man may say, Iustice comes by the Law.
To conclude this point of Connext axiomes; I hope it doth now appeare, that, they are fundamentally, and indeed no other but simple. [Page 237]Therefore whatsoever belongs vnto them, it is due first vnto simple axiomes, and Consequently, they deriue the same from them. They differ onely in manner of pronouncing, and not otherwayes. It is now time that I proceed to a Discrete Axiome.
CHAP. XLV. Of a discrete Axiome.
THe nature of a discrete Axiome is opened in these words.
The Axiome now defined, 1 is of no lesse frequent vse then the former, nor is it lesse vsefull, in the common converse of man: therefore it is well worth our knowing, and consequent ly this precept doth well deserue a [Page 238]place in Art. Wee shall vnderstand it the better, if we put an instance or two. There bee different kindes of this also; I will propound one of each, that wee may be the better able to iudge of them, as occasion serues.
- 1 Though I walke in the vale of death, yet I will not feare ill. Psal. 23.4.
- 2. Although thou heldest fast my name in the time of persecutiō, yet thou art guiltie of many faults. Revel. 2.13.14.
These are compound Axiomes in the iudgement, 2 both of Ramus and Aristotle: for in them, two simple Axiomes are ioyned together by a coniunction; and thereby each of them is one intire sentence. I say one sentence, in their voyce of pronouncing, though the coniunction doth thrust the parts one from another: for these propositions doe say, hee that hath the first may bee with out the second: and thereby pronounce but one thing.
In these Axiomes, 3 dissenting arguments onely are disposed: and dissentingly in the same manner as they are disposed in simple Axiomes: for what can be severed from the subiect, but those arguments that dissent from it. The parts of this Axiome can haue no name: because, it containes nothing that doth antecede, or follow; vnlesse we will giue it those names which belong to a simple Axiome.
The coniunction which tyes the parts together, is called discrete: 4 and in this place it imports no more but a thing that keepes two asunder, for the present, that, at another time may meete together. If we examine these two examples, wee shall easily vnderstand the rule. In the first, not fearing of ill; is denyed to him that walkes in the vale of death: not simply and absolutely, as if no man could so walke, and feare ill; but as a thing which was severed for that time onely; or that did arise vpon that occasion. In the second example, there seemes some [Page 240]difficultie: because it consisteth onely of consenting arguments: for a constant profession of faith, and guiltines of a fault, are attributed to one subiect: The second example, is like the first, if wee frame it exactly according to Art, it will haue these wordes.
In this proposition; 5 ill doing in some things, is attributed vnto a well doer in some other things: but these two differ only in respect of the present time, and those parties, they differ not of their owne nature. For these that did ill in some things, might haue done well in all.
[Good] That is in respect of the forme. 6 A discrete Axiome is then framed according to Art, when the partes of it doe dissent by diversitie, [Page 241]not as opposites. This rule must bee vnderstood of such Axiomes, as are most agreeable to Art, and in that sence it is most true. If it be vnderstood vniversally, it is not true. If I shall say, although I am rich yet I am not poore. I shall frame my discretiue Axiome according to Art: for I sever povertie from riches, not simply, and every way: but onely as proceeding from, or bearing company with riches: and that is enough to make it a formall discrete Axiome: because this serues for no other end, but to take away an illation, and to seuer a thing falsly inferred, from the thing that did inferre the same. Such an Axiome is ridiculous I grant, but in him that would haue riches, and povertie goe together, not in him that denies their going together.
[Both parts true] This rule holds in every discretiue Axiome whatsoever. The Axiome is false, 7 vnles both parts be true some wayes or other: for in every Axiome of this kinde, the first part is let passe as true. In some [Page 242]Axiomes it is so indeede, and in the thing: but in some other it is so in courtesie onely: not in the thing. The second part must alwaies be true, otherwise it denyes not the inference opposed thereby: and therefore it pronounceth not as the thing is. The examples formerly aleadged, will make the matter plaine. In the first, David presumes, that, hee did walke through the vale of death; and so hee did indeede: yet he denyes, that therby he was made to feare ill. If he had feared ill, then hee had pronounced falsely. If neither himselfe, nor any other had presumed, that, he did walke in the vale of death; then (for that also) he had pronounced falsely, for in both these cases, hee had pronounced otherwise then the thing was indeede. The Apostle Paul 2. Cor. 11 6. is content to yeeld his accusers, that, he was rude in speech: yet hee denyes that he is so in knowledge. The first is true by concession onely; not in the thing: for his speech was excellent, both for Logicke, and Rethoricke, [Page 243]as his disputation and exhortations doe witnesse. The second is true indeede, otherwise he had made no answere to them that argued him slender in knowledge: because hee was rude in speech.
Hitherto I haue opened the nature of discretiue Axiomes, 8 it remaines that I shew how they be supported by a simple Axiome. Touching that I say, In the thing it is no more but a simple Axiome, as the yce is no more but water: for Art will resolue these Axiomes into simple, as heate, and raine doth dissolue the yce. The first example is no more but as if David had sayd, walking through the vale of death, and the feare of ill, doe not alwayes goe together. In the same sort, Paul answers to his accusers: Rude speech and slender knowledge, are not companions. Hereupon wee may conclude: discretiue Axiomes, are compounded as they are pronounced: but they are simple as they ought to be resolved: therefore whatsoever belongs to a simple Axiome, appertaines to them also.
CHAP. XLVI. Of Disiunct Axiomes.
IN the last place we must come to the precepts of a disjunct axiome: and that may be thus defined.
These axiomes are seldome in vse, 1 and when we finde them, they are rather disputations by Syllogisme, then single sentences by themselues, pronouncing truth or falshood: yet notwithstanding, I will vnfold their nature, that we may haue a true iudgement of them. We may see that, in this instance;
This sentence is a compound axiom, 2 [Page 245]both according to Ramus, and Aristotle: for divers single propositions are tyed together, and made one by a Coniunction.
This sentence alledged, is a disjunct axiome: for the band that tyes the parts together, is disjunctiue. Perpetuall life, and death at last, are attributed to Saul: one of them certainly, neither of them distinctly, but both disjoynedly.
Opposites onely haue place in this axiome: for none may be disioyned, 3 or thrust the one from the other, but such onely as in their nature cannot agree to the same subiect, in the same respect, part, and time.
The truth of these propositions, is measured according to the opposites disposed in them; if they containe such as one of them must be in the subiect, (and are also) without a third thing to come betweene them, then the proposition is necessary, thorough the opposition of the parts: the example now alledged is of this kinde; Perpetuall life, or death at l [...]st; one of [Page 246]them (I say) must needs befall Saul, these two haue no third to come betweene them, therefore it cannot be avoyded: but he must either liue perpetually, or dye at last. If wee will Contradict this proposition, we must say; Saul shall neither liue for ever, nor dye once: this is necessarily false: because, the other is necessarily true.
If a disjunctiue proposition containe such opposites, 4 as one whereof must be in the subiect, and the sayd opposites haue a meane betweene them, then the disjunction is necessary; when as all that comes betweene them be sufficiently reckoned vp (as for example) This action is either supernaturally good, or supernaturally evill, or naturally good, or naturally evill. Here we haue a necessary truth, because every action of man is either good, or evill: and there is no other thing comes betweene supernaturall good, and supernaturall evill, but naturall good, or naturall evill. The Contradiction of this disjunction is made, when we say, there is some other [Page 247]thing that comes betweene supernaturall good, and supernaturall evill: besides naturall good, and naturall evill.
If I make a disiunctiue proposition thus: Socrates, is either, a Father, 5 or a Childe: then this proposition containes a coniecture, or opinion, no necessary truth: for it might come to passe, that he was no father, because he hath no childe; nor no childe, because he hath no father. Thus (I hope) the nature of disjunct axiomes, is made plaine enough.
These axiomes doe savour no lesse of them that be simple, 6 then all the former compound axiomes haue done. These are compound in the words wherein they are vttered: but they are simple, in the sense wherein they are vnderstoood. The examples alledged, may be thus reduced; He that must once dye, shall not liue for ever. That action, that is supernaturally good, is neither naturally good, nor naturally evill, nor supernaturally evill. Wherevpon wee may conclude, [Page 248]whatsoever belongs to a simple Axiome, containing these arguments, the same belongs to disjunct axioms. Now at the last, we are come to an end of all Logicall precepts, that concerne the making of axiomes.
CHAP. XLVII. Of a Syllegisme.
IN this place we must come to the precepts, which teach vs, to dispose arguments in a Syllogisme, and to iudge of them, when they are disposed:
This definition is set downe by Aristotle, 1 almost word for word: for [Page 249]thus sayth he; A Syllogisme is a speech, wherein some things being placed, another thing differing from them, doth necessarity follow, from them that are so placed. Top. lib. 1. cap. 1. Prior lib. 1. cap. 1. Elench. cap. 1.
[A Syllogisme] This terme is borrowed, either from accounts, 2 wherein many particular summes are added together, and thereby made one totall, or else, from many sentences being disorderly placed, or brought into one briefe, or breviate; therefore it serueth well for this place: because, the nature of this discourse may truely be resembled vnto either of them.
[Discourse] This word sets out the generall nature of the thing defined. Aristotle calls it a speech: and both of them doe meane the same thing: namely, many axiomes so placed together, that one is drawne out of another. I say Aristotle meant thus; because, the rest of his definition sorts with it. And he calls the precepts of a Syllogisme, Dianoeticall Doctrine. Post. lib. 1. cap. 1.
[Question] A question (then) is alwayes disposed in a Syllogisme. By question is meant, a doubtfull axiome: so as, the office of a Syllogisme is to determine a doubtfull sentence. Aristotle doth afford vs the same precept: for (according to him) every proposition ought not to be called into question: but those onely, that may be doubted of. Top. lib. 1. cap. 11. yea he accounts them mad that take that for a principle, that no man grants, or put that for a question that all men grants: seing this is without doubt, and that is confessed by none. Top. lib. 1. cap. 10.
[Disposed] Aristotle sayth, 4 placed or put: but both of them meane one thing, namely, ordered, framed, or fitted.
[Argument] By argument is meant (here) a third argument: 5 by it wee vnderstand, that, the office of a Syllogisme is, to proue one thing by another: and so much we haue from Aristotle. A Syllogisme proues one thing, of another, by a medium. Post. lib. 2. cap. 4. There can be no Syllogisme to [Page 251]proue one thing of another, vnlesse some medium be brought, which is referred by a certaine attribution to both extreames. Prior. lib. 1. cap. 23. From whence it followes, that, in every Syllogisme there are three termes, and no more. If there be any other part besides these three, it is called a prosyllogisme. Aristotle teacheth the samething. It is manifest (in his iudgement) that, every Syllogisme is made by three termes, and no more: if there be more third arguments then one, there are more Syllogismes then one. Prior. lib. 1. cap. 25. Post. lib. 1. cap. 19.
[Antecedent] This signifies the two first propositions in a Syllogisme, 6 from whence the third is concluded: so sayth Aristotle also: It is plaine that a Syllogisme consists of two propositions, and not of more: for, the three termes doe make those two propositions. Prior. lib. 1. cap. 25.
The first, is called the proposition, because, it containes at least the predicate, or Consequent part of the question. The second, is called the assumption; [Page 252]because, it is taken out of the first. According to Aristotle, the first, hath the name of Maior, because, it containes the predicate part of the question: the second, the title of Minor, because, the subiect part of the question is disposed in it. Prior. lib. 1. cap. 14. They vary in words, but not in the thing. Onely Ramus speakes of all Syllogismes in generall, as well compound, as simple. Aristotle of simple onely, but we shall resolue this difficultie, when we come to compound Syllogismes.
[Granted] The inferring of the conclusion followeth the granting of the antecedent, 7 and Aristotle meaneth the same, when he sayth in his definition: A different thing doth follow from those that are put. By put he can meane no other but granted.
[Necessarily concluded] Aristotle sayth, doth necessarily follow from them that are put (that is) there is nothing required more to inferre the Conclusion, then the termes themselues that are disposed. Prior. lib. 1. cap. 1.
Now the definition is vnfolded, wee will enter vpon the particular things contained vnder it.
CHAP. XLVIII. Of a simple Syllogisme.
A Syllogisme, is
- Simple.
Ramus.
- Compound.
Simple, where the consequent part of the question, is placed in the proposition; the antecedent in the assumption.
THus a Syllogisme is divided, 1 and the first kinde thereof is defined. Aristotle doth divide a Syllogisme into Ostensiue, and Hypotheticall: and therefore heagrees with Ramus wholy. Prior. lib. 1. cap. 23. I doe not finde, that he defines a simple or ostensiue Syllogisme in any one sentence: yet, this definition is wholy taken [Page 254]out of him, as we shall see when we vnfold the parts of it.
[Simple] This word is giuen to a Syllogisme, 2 after the same sort, that it was given to an axiome, even because, the third argument is disposed with the question without coniunction, or composition.
[Consequent part, 3 &c.] These words shew wherein a Syllogisme is simple, and how the same ought to be framed. It is simple, because one terme of the question, and the third argument makes each proposition: and these two propositions inferre a third, which is a simple axiome also. The predicate part of the question, must be framed with the third argument, in the proposition: and the subiect part with the third argument in the assumption; not so much because, men haue sayd so: but because nature will haue it so: this example will shew it. One sayth, Socrates is vertuous: another doubts of it: if I would proue it to be true, a third argument must be brought, that shall tye the predicate [Page 255]and subject of that proposition together. Now then, for that end I bring the terme Iuflice. If this terme be disposed in a Syllogisme, it must be framed after this sort; He that is Iust, is vertuous: but Socrates is Iust. Therefore he is vertuous. I say nature appoints this frame; because, Iustice is a speciall vertue, therefore where Iustice is, vertue needs must be. Therefore Aristotle was a true follower of nature, when he appointed to dispose arguments on this manner. Prior. lib. 1. cap. 4. To conclude, from hence it is manifest, that, the Conclusion inferred, by every true simple Syllogisme, must be gathered out of the proposition, and assumption after this manner, viz. The antecedent, or subiect part of the conclusion, out of the assumption; and the consequent, or predicate part, out of the proposition: and where this is not found, the Syllogisme is false, and concludes nothing.
As we found in a simple axiome, 4 so shall we finde in a simple Syllogisme: [Page 256]affirmation, and negation: generalitie, and specialitie.
Affirmatiue, Ramus. when all the parts are affirmatiue. Negatiue, when either part of the Antecedent, and the Conclusion are negatiue.
Every Syllogisme (sayth Aristotle) is either affirmatiue, 5 or negatiue, vniversall, or in part. Prior. lib. 1. cap. 23. Ʋniversall is that which consisteth of all vniversall termes; particular consisteth of termes, as well particular as vniversall. Wherefore, if the Conclusion be vniversall, the termes must be vniversall. But the termes may be vniversall, and yet the conclusion not vniversall. In every Syllogisme, either both or one of the propolitions must be like the conclusion. Affirmatiue, or negatiue, necessary, or Contingent. And thus alwayes the termes in a Syllogisme must be affected: otherwise it is not simply a true one. Prior. lib. 1. cap. 24.
From hence Aristotle inferreth further (in the place last alledged) that, In every Syllogisme there must be one terme vniversall, and one affirmatiue: because, without a vniversall it is not a Syllogisme, or belongs not to the thing in hand, or begs the question. Thus far he. We may say the like of that Syllogisme, that consists of all negatiues.
It may seeme by this, 6 that Aristotle doth not acknowledge any Syllogisme that consisteth of proper propositions. And indeed, it is doubtfull what his iudgement is in the matter: yet, in all likelihood he doth acknowl [...]dge them no lesse then Ramus, as shall appeare when I come vnto the particular kind [...]s; where this whole precept will be made more certaine, and cleere to our vnderstanding.
CHAP. XLIX. Of Aristotles three figures.
ARistotle delivers the forme of Syllogismes: 1 Prior. lib. 1. cap. 4.5. & 6. & cap. 32. and divides them into three figures, or assignes the making of them three manner of wayes. In the first place alledged, he speakes of them so vniversally, that he comprehends false or vnprofitable Syllogismes, as well as true: but in the latter, he speakes of true Syllogismes precisely, on this manner.
- 1. If the last extreame be affirmed of the middle terme, and the muddle terme of the first extreame, or the last extreame be denyed of the middle terme, and the middle terme affirmed of the first extreame; then it is the first figure.
- 2. If the middle terme be both affirmed, and denyed of both the extreames: then it is the second figure.
- [Page 259]3. If the last extreame be affirmed, or denyed of the middle terme and the first extreame be affirmed of the middle terme: then, it is the third figure.
- And after this manner, the middle terme ought to be disposed in each figure. So farre he. cap. 32.
Every vniversall affirmatiue question, is proued by the first figure onely: and that after one manner of way.
Every negatine vniversall question is proued, both by the first, and second figure: by the first one way, by the second two wayes.
Every particular affirmatiue question is proued, by the first, and third figures: one way, by the first; three wayes by the third.
A negatiue particular, is proued in all the figures, one way in the first, two wayes in the second, and three wayes in the third. Prior. lib. 1. cap. 26.
Thus farre Aristotle doth giue vs rules for the framing of a Syllogisme, 2 and the manner of concluding all [Page 260]kind of questions by them. I esteemed it the best way to set downe all his precepts together; because they are the easier to be remembred. In the next place, I will set downe what Ramus hath delivered, and compare them together, that we may the better see their agreement, and thereby we shall the better vnderstand, then by either of them apart.
CHAP. L. Of Ramus contract Syllogisme.
Ramus doth dispose his precepts, 1 for the framing of Syllogismes, in a different maner from Aristotle; I will report them as I finde them in him, and apply Aristotle to him. Thus then he beginneth:
A simple Syllogisme hath the parts contracted, Ramus.or explicated.
[Page 261]A contract Syllogisme, is when the argument, brought as an example, is so applyed to the particular question, that it is the antecedent in both parts: and the assumption affirmed.
This forme of Syllogisme is Aristotles third figure, reported in the Chapter going before: and containes nothing more then we finde in him, onely they differ in the name.
[Contract] This word giues the name vnto this forme. 2 In common speech it signifies a thing crusht together: or drawn into a narrow roome: the reason of the name ariseth from the nature of the thing; namely, the short, & briefe disposing of the third argument with the question, in this figure. Wherein it differs from the rest: and it must bee so contract, because wee finde it so in the common vse of men, and not otherwise vnfolded.
[Argument brought &c.] 3 By these words, and the rest which follow, the different kind of this forme is set out [Page 262]by foure properties, whereof this is the first namely, that the third argument, (or middle terme which is vsed to proue, that the latter part of the question is rightly ioyned vnto, or seuered from the former part) is put for an example, or an instance assigning the thing wherein the question concluded is true: as wee shall see anon in the Syllogisme it selfe.
In this all the Logick Schooles doe agree. 4 First they call this forme an Expository Syllogisme onely, because the third argument is as it were an exposition, or commentary to vnfold the truth of the question concluded: or else, because the argument doth expose the indeterminate subiect part of the question, vnto one certaine, and singular thing: as wee shall see when wee come to giue instance of this precept. Secondly; The Authors of best credit doe expresly teach the same thing with Ramus, An expositery Syllogisme (sayth Aliaco 1 sent. q. 5. lit. Z.) is then good, when the middle terme importeth one thing, and no [Page 263]more. If it comprebend many distinct things, it is naught. According to Aristotle, this forme concludes particular questions onely, as hath beene shewed, cap. 49. therefore in his iudgment the third argument must bee put for an example, for such questions cannot be proved by any other.
[Particular question] This is the second propertie of this form, 5 no questions are concluded here, but particular: and so sayth Aristotle in the chapter going before, and hee adds, that, they are concluded three wayes by it. If therefore any question that is generall, or proper; be concluded in this figure, then the Syllogisme is false, and proues nothing.
[Antecedent in both parts] This is the third propertie of this forme, 6 the third argument hath the first place, or is subiected both in the proposition, and assumption. Aristotle hath the same thing expresly in the 49. Chapter: The middle terme (say the Iesuites, in their commentary vpon Aristotle: Prior. lib. 1. cap. 6.) is subiected [Page 264]to both parts of the extreame in the third figure.
[Assumption affirmed] This is the last propertie of this figure. 7 Aristotle requires the same thing too: namely, that, the first extreame be affirmed of the middle terme, therefore the assumption is affirmed: for (according to him) the first extreame is alwayes disposed in the assumption: and the Iesuites in the place last alledged doe expresly teach, that, in the third figure the Minor must alwayes be affirmatiue.
We haue an instance of this figure in this briefe Discourse.
Here we finde a particular question concluded. 8 Some confidence, &c. This I say is particular; because, vertue is attributed to confidence, but in some part, not to all kinde of confidence vniversally. The third argument is a singular thing, viz. Constancy, [Page 265]and this is put as an example, or singular instance; reducing the indeterminate subiect part of the question vnto one determinate thing: and thereby expounding, or vnfolding that which was darke, by that which is cleere, and exposing vncertaintie to a certaintie. This forme is contracted, because it containes no more expresly but the question, and the third argument: The affirmatiue assumption, and conclusion are both wanting: if they be supplyed it will stand in this forme.
- Constancy is a vertue.
- Constancy is a Confidence.
- Therefore some Confidence is a vertue.
By Aristotles rule the proposition of this figure may be negatiue, 9 and Ramus agrees with him when hee debarres the assumption onely from negation. In a Contract forme wee haue this figure, in this example.
If we doe explicate this contracted forme, we shall haue it stand thus.
- No audaciousnesse is a vertue.
- All audaciousnesse is confidence.
- Therefore some confidence is not a vertue.
We learne from ARistotle. 10 cap. 48. that, the proposition and assumption may be vniversall, yet the conclusion not vniversall: here we see it avowd. More examples are requisite to illustrate this precept, wherefore I will adde some others.
- Some man is prudent: as Socrates.
- Some man is not fortunate: as Hector.
Both these examples may be thus vnfolded.
- Socrates is prudent.
- Socrates is a man.
- Therefore some man is prudent.
- [Page 267] Hector is not fortunate.
- Hector is a man.
- Therefore some man is not fortunate.
Aristotle requires (as we haue set downe cap. 48.) 11 that every Syllogisme must haue one proposition vniversall. It seemes, either that rule holds not alwayes, or else he doth not acknowledge that such Syllogismes as these be, to be true: but (if I may say what I thinke) I beleeue neither of them; for, the nature of the things themselues will avow this kinde of disputing. No conclusion can be inferred, vnlesse there be one proposition vniversall: for nothing can be deduced out of mere singulars.
If any demand which proposition in these two last arguments are vniversall?
I answer, 12 the assumption of them both be vniversall: for that is a vniversall, where the predicate is attributed vnto all, or the whole subiect; so as, to attribute vnto all, and vnto the whole subiect, is one and the same thing (in the [Page 268] iudgement of Aristotle) Prior. lib. 1. cap. 1. Now, the terme man, is attributed to Socrates, and Hector wholy: so as, there is no part of Socrates, vnto which that terme doth not belong. If any obiect, that Socrates is an individuall, and therefore that terme cannot be subiected in a vniversall proposition. I answer, If that terme did import no more but an individuall, then I grant the argument to be good, but in this place it doth not import a meere individuall: for then we must say: This Socrates, &c. which we may not, yea although we might say so, yet that terme imports more then an individuall; for he is spoken of as a man, and therefore as a species, not as this, or that individuall body, or numericall subsistency. If this be true, then Aristotles rule is vniversall; els it comes too short; and he hath omitted one kinde of Syllogisme out of his Logicke, which I dare not grant.
I suppose, that, this precept is made cleere enough, therefore I passe to the next.
CHAP. LI. Of an explicate Syllogisme in generall.
A Syllogisme is then explicate, Ramus.when the proposition, assumption, and conclusion, are orderly framed together.
In this kinde the proposition is alwayes generall, or proper, and the conclusion like the proposition, and assumption, or the weaker of them.
ARistotle hath not shewed vs the difference of explicate and contracted Syllogismes expresly; 1 and in the thing: but (according to him) we must follow nature in every precept of Logicke, and that is as much as if he had sayd so: for nature commands, that, some Syllogismes be explicate, and not contract: because no third argument, that serues to proue a question that is vniversall or proper, can be put as an example of either [Page 270]of them; therefore there must be some Syllogismes explicate, that cannot be contracted: and there may be some contracted, that need not be explicated; and consequently (according to nature) some Syllogismes may be explicate, and some contract.
2 The presence of the two propositions, and conclusion is a sufficient reason why we should call a Syllogisme explicate: for thereby it is vnfolded to the full. The first propertie, that belongs vnto the Syllogismes of this kinde, is this, viz. The proposition is alwayes generall, if the conclusion be vniversall, or particular, if the conclusion be proper, then the proposition is proper also. Now, this law followes the disposing of the third argument, with the question: not the will or device of man (as we shall see by the particular instances;) The conclusion must be like the proposition, and assumption, when both of them are vniversall, and affirmatiue, or proper, and affirmatiue, then the conclusion must be so too, when the assumptionis particular, and negatiue, [Page 271]or proper and negatiue, or the proposition negatiue, then the conclusion must be accordingly; therefore, whensoever an explicate Syllogisme varies from any of these rules, it is false, and concludes nothing: nature sayes it must be thus, therefore when it is otherwise, nature is perverted, and we erre from truth. These rules, and no more but these, belong to an explicate Syllogisme in common.
CHAP. LII. Of the first kind of an explicate Syllogisme.
1 THis kind of Syllogisme hath two properties: The one, that the third argument alwayes followes (that is) it [Page 272]is the predicate, or consequent part, in the proposition, and assumption. The second propertie is, that either the proposition, or assumption, is alwayes denyed. I say, either; because sometime the proposition is denyed, and sometimes the assumption indifferently; as the question and third argument require. If one be negatiue, it is enough. Therefore, in this figure negatiue questions (onely) are concluded. I say negatiue, either vniversall, particular, or proper.
2 We haue this whole precept contained in Aristotles second figure: as the Reader may see, reported cap. 49. therefore I need not repeat it here. I will alledge some instances to shew the practice of this rule.
1. Every wise man doth vse his reason well.
He that is overcome with passion, doth not vse his reason well.
Therefore he that is overcome with passion, is not a wise man.
In this argument the proposition is an vniversall affirmatiue, the assumption, [Page 273]and conclusion is vniversall negatiue.
2. They that knew the wisedome of God, did not crucifie Christ.
The princes of the world crucified Christ.
Therefore the princes of the world knew not the wisedome of God.
3 This frame containes a proposition negatiue vniversall, an assumption affirmatiue speciall, and a conclusion negatiue speciall.
3. Iudas that writ the Epistle, was the brother of Iames.
Iudas Iscariot, was not the brother of Iames.
Therefore Iudas Iscariot, writ not the Epistle.
In this example, the proposition is affirmatiue proper; the assumption and conclusion is negatiue proper These three are sufficient to shew vs the vse of this rule; therefore I will content my selfe with them, and passe to the next.
CHAP. LIII. Of the second kind of an Explicate Syllogisme.
1 THis figure hath also two properties. The first: the argument goeth before in the proposition (that is) it is subjected and thereby it hath the first place. In the second propertie, the argument followeth in the assumption. (that is) it is predicated in the assumption; and the assumption is affirmed, or affirmatiue: as if it were sayd, the argument is predicated affirmatiuely in the assumption.
Aristotle made this law, and cals it his first figure: as his owne words doe shew, related Cap. 49.
It may be doubted, 2 whether Aristotle or Ramus hath kept best order in placing the figures of a Syllogisme. [Page 275]I answere, it is not materiall, whether of them be first, or last: for, no one of them doth giue light, or knowledge to the other: neither doth it further our vse of them, when this is set before that, or that before this: Aristotle preferred the one, because all questions might be concluded in it: Ramus preferd another, because the argument is disposed with the question after a more single, or simple maner: therefore both did well so farre as they had reason, neither of them did better, because (as I sayd) their order doth neither profit, nor hinder their vse, therefore I haue said enough to satisfie the doubt, and will goe on to shew how this rule may be vsed.
Whosoever is borne of God, overcommeth the World.
He that beleeues on Christ, is borne of God.
Therefore he that beleeues on Christ hath overcome the World.
In this example, 3 all the parts are vniversally affirmatiue, wherefore I [Page 276]will shew another.
He that is a murtherer, hath not eternall life abiding in him.
He that hateth his brother, is a murtherer.
Therefore he that hateth his brother, hath not eternall life abiding in him.
Here we haue the proposition, and conclusion vniversally negatiue, and the assumption vniversally affirmatiue. In the like sort, this rule is vsefull, in all other questions that are concluded.
Aristotle, 4 is of opinion, that this onely is the forme or figure of a perfit Syllogisme: because, every question may be proved by this, and both the other may be referred vnto this, therefore they are made perfit by it. Prior. lib. 1. Cap. 4. Thus much must be granted, and so farre it is perfit; yea and the onely perfect figure. The second, and third figures, are no lesse agreeable to Aristotles definition of a Syllogisme, then the first; as he shall see that will examine them thereby: therefore they want nothing of that [Page 277]essentiall perfection, that is in the first, what can haue greater perfection then that, which every way agrees to the definition thereof; and consequently, they inferre their conclusions as necessarily as the first. The first figure onely hath perfection, essentiall, and accidentall. The second, and third haue perfection essentiall, but not accidentall, and this is the difference betweene them. By these things that are past, wee haue finished all those precepts, which teach vs, how to frame arguments together in a simple Syllogisme. In the next place, we must come to a compound Syllogisme, if we looke no further then Ramus, but we must looke further; else we shall make our art defectiue: for Logicke doth teach vs to iudge, as well as to dispose. If we must iudge, then we must looke for truth, or falshood, and consequently for precepts that shall teach vs how to finde out truth, and the severall kindes of it: For this, wee must consult with Aristotle, therefore in the next Chapter, I will [Page 278]report his precepts, with as much brevitie as I can.
CHAP. LIIII. Of a Demonstratiue Syllogisme.
IN the first place, 1 we must set downe the precepts which concerne necessary truth; which vsually is called Science: for, that is first in nature, time, excellency, and our apprehension, of that Aristotle sayth thus.
Science is
- Indemonstrable.
- Demonstratiue. Post. lib. 1. Cap. 3.
We haue delivered the precepts of Indemonstrable Science, in the matter of a definition, and distribution, wee must now come to the precepts of Demonstratiue science: and first to the definition thereof.
But for asmuch as, 2 to know is double [Page 279] viz: To vnderstand what, or wherfore a thing is, and secondly, That a thing is, Poster. lib. 1. Cap. 13. therefore, both of them are defined by this one sentence.
This sentence is obscure in it selfe, therefore hee doth vnfold it in these words.
A demonstration, 3 is a syllogisme, that consisteth of things necessary: that is to say, of propositions, and conclusion, that are necessary; and this is proper to a demonstration. I say both, because the conclusion may be necessary, when the medium is not necessary: but when the medium is necessary, the conclusion cannot be but necessary: euen as truth, is alwayes collected from truth.
Wherefore whatsoever a man knowes by Demonstration, both, it must be necessary, and the medium also of the [Page 280]Demonstration must be necessary; Otherwise we neither know what a thing is, nor that a thing is necessarily: but either we thinke we know, and doe not, or thinke we know not at all. Poster. lib. 1. cap. 6. Quoniam igitur &c.
Thus farre the nature of demonstratiue science, is set out in common.
The proper nature of that science whereby wee vnderstand what or wherefore a thing is; 4 is set out in these words.
The medium is then necessary, when it consisteth of things true, first, immediate, better knowne, preceding, and cause of the conclusion.
Those are first, and true, which haue force to argue, not from others, but of themselues.
They ought to be true, because that which is not, cannot be knowne: they must be first, because they ought to be indemonstrable, and consist of their owne proper principles, we must not inquire of the principles of Science, wherefore they are so: but every one of them, even by it selfe, ought to be worthy of credit.
[Page 281]The medium must containe the causes of the conclusion, seeing we know nothing vnlesse wee vnderstand the causes. The medium ought to consist of things preceding the conclusion; both in nature, and our knowledge: therefore the principium of ad monstration is an immediate proposition, viz. that hath none before it. Poster. lib. 1. cap. 4. & 6. Top. lib. 1. cap. 1. wherupō, demonstrations are made by definitions. Poster. lib. 1. cap. 33. and, they are the principles thereof. Poster. lib. 2. cap. 3. for a definition can no wayes be proued Poster. lib. 2. cap 4.5 6. & 7. lib. 1. cap 9.
By this whole discourse we haue rules to know, 5 what Syllogisine containes a truth simply necessary, and we are sent vnto them onely, whose third argument comprehends the causes of the conclusion, and such causes also, as are better knowne vnto vs then the conclusion it selfe. Wherefore, for further explication hereof, Aristotle doth shew vs what causes these be, and how they concurre; [Page 282] In these words:
For as much as, we doe then know, when we vnderstand the causes, and these be foure. 1. the forme. 2. the matter. 3. the efficient: and 4. the end.
Then the conclusion hath a necessary truth, when one of these causes is taken, and placed as a medium in two propositions with that Conclusion. And by Causes is meant, not onely the causes of those things that are, but also of those things that haue beene, or shall be hereafter. Post. lib. 2. cap. 11. & 12.
Now wee doe fully vnderstand, 6 where to finde necessary truth in a Syllogisme. Our next labour must be, to set out these scientificall Syllogismes by other properties; that we may know them the more easily, and certainely; for that cause, Aristotle doth distribute a demonstration after this manner.
A demonstration, is
- Ʋniversall.
- Particular.
- Affirmatiue.
- Negatiue. Poster. lib. 1. cap 24.
A demonstration vniversall, excells a particular: and an affirmatiue is better then a negatiue. cap. 24.25.
This distribution followes the nature of a Syllogisme, 7 for every demonstration is a syllogisme, though every syllogisme be not a demonstration. Poster. lib. 1. cap. 2. and is very vsefull to giue vs knowledge where to finde this necessary truth, and the degrees of it. To conclude, this matter of demonstratiue science, he sayth: ‘The first figure is fittest for a demonstration, yea, chiefly proper vnto this science, and it is to be sought out, onely by that. Poster. lib. 1. cap. 14.’
Some perhaps will looke, 8 that I [Page 284]should giue instances, to open the vse of these precepts: and it may seeme the more needfull, because some are of opinion, that, no example can be given answerable to this rule.
I answer; this conceit is very vaine: for, cannot any of the causes, or all of them together, serue to proue a sentence that is called into question? or cannot the causes be disposed with a question into two propositions? Without doubt they may. Also, it is most certaine, that, every proposition comprehends a necessary truth, wherein the effect is argued by the causes; for the effect is no more, but a comprehension of all the causes: and when the causes doe argue the effect, the effect is resolued into the causes; therefore when we know the causes we cannot but know the effect. And consequently, such propositions are necessary; and what they are, such the conclusion must be, that is lawfully inferred from them.
If there may be premises, and conclusion answerable to this rule, then [Page 285]no doubt, there be examples of it, and we may shew them if need were, but I will saue that labour for this time, for divers reasons. 1. Aristotle hath done that alreadie, Poster. lib. 2. cap. 11. so as, he that will, may make vse of them. 2. This kinde of knowledge cannot easily be discerned, seeing it is very hard for vs to vnderstand those principles of a thing that are true, first, and of the same kinde: as Aristotle doth admonish, Poster. lib. 1. cap. 9. Difficile autem &c. 3. By a mans owne practice, and obseruation, he shall finde them, and their vse in naturall things: and in them onely: for in matters divine, and spirituall, such arguments can haue no place. In them we vnderstand by faith, not by sence, and faith hath Gods authoritie for the principle thereof, not the nature or causes of the things themselues. I say, a man may finde them by practice, because by sence we get memory, by the remembring the doing of the same thing often, we get experience, by our many times remembring, our experience is [Page 286]one: amongst all these that we doe remember, there is one thing wherein mans minde doth rest satisfied aboue many: that which is one, and the same amongst the rest, becomes a principium of science, if it belong vnto a thing that is. Thus much we learne from Aristotle, Poster. lib. 2. cap. 19. Exsensu, &c.
The medium of a demonstration, 9 whereby wee know that a thing is, consists in some of these that follow.
Thus farre goe Aristotles precepts, to shew vs what Syllogismes containe necessary truth; and the degrees thereof. If any expect examples of these last: I answer, they may be given; because we may haue examples of the former, as I haue alreadie proved. They may be given with more ease then the former; because the things contained in them are neerer [Page 288]to our vnderstanding: but I will saue that labour, least I make my discourse ouer long, and the Reader too idle. We vse that rule with most profit, which we vnderstand and practice together.
CHAP. LV. Of Syllogismes containing conjecturall truth.
IN the former Chapter, 1 I haue dispatched all the precepts that concerne a Demonstration. In this, I must set downe those, which teach vs how to finde out Syllogismes, that containe probable, and coniecturall truth. Aristotles precepts that concerne this kinde of truth, are these vnder-written.
That Axiome is probable which seemes so to all, to many, or them that are wise, by certaine frequent notes, and cleerenes. Top. lib. 1. cap. 1.
[Page 289]Those Accidents which agree to the subiect by themselues, in the wanner aforesayd: but in such fort as they may be, and not be attributed thereunto, they (I say) cannot be a medium in a Demonstration: because they cannot inferre a conclusion that containes a necessary truth. Poster. lib. 1. Cap. 6.
These two precepts are all that I can finde in Aristotle, 2 touching these Syllogismes: and I thinke, they are full and plaine enough, so as, wee neede not seeke for more, either precepts, or examples to set out their nature, and make vs vnderstand them, therefore, they shall passe without further search or explication.
From hence wee may inferre that thing we seeke for on this manner:
If Adjuncts or Accidents make a conjecturall truth, and no more, then a Syllogisme consisting of Adjuncts or Accidents, doth containe a conjecturall truth onely.
But wee haue the first from Aristotle, in the places alledged, for he [Page 290]excludes Accidents from a Demonstration, and esteemes them no more, but cleere notes, making an Axiome seeme probable, therefore (according to him) Syllogismes consisting of accidents inferre but conjecturall truth.
To conclude this point, 3 we ought not to forget, that Aristotle giues vs rules of such Syllogismes, as hee cals Contentions, and a Paralogisme: his deed was good, because it doth some waies serue to giue vs vnderstanding, in the precepts of Syllogismes aforesayd: but I will omit the sayd rules, because they tend to shew vs precepts by privation or negation onely. Aristotle did well, because from him we haue the first formall Art of Logicke. I must omit them, in as much as all things that might explicate a precept, fitte not my present purpose, therefore here I will put a finall end to this matter.
CHAP. LVI. Of the first kinde of connex Syllogismes.
HItherto I haue supplyed the oversight of Ramus, 1 thereupon the nature of Art requires, that, I enter vpon the rules of a compound Syllogisme, Ramus doth define them all in this one short sentence.
Aristotle doth acknowledge compound Syllogismes, 2 as I haue shewed Cap. 48. But hee doth not define them at all, (for any thing that I find) neither is it greatly needfull, for their nature will appeare well enough, when wee come to each speciall kinde.
In simple Syllogismes, 3 the argument, and the question made two distinct propositions: in these, they make but one. In them, one thing was simply attributed to another: here the whole question, and argument is compoūded together, which properties doe make them really to differ, in their maner or kinde of disposing. These compound Syllogismes are thus divided.
A compound Syllogisme, Ramus.is
- Connexe.
- Dsiunct.
A Syllogisme is then Connexe, when the proposition thereof is connexe, and it is of two sorts.
The first sort of connex Syllogismes, assumeth the untecedent, and concludeth the consequent.
Aristotle doth call all compound Syllogismes by the name of Hypotheticall, 4 because they inferre the conclusion vpon the supposition of some part [Page 293]thereof: & doth divide them into such as conclude according vnto transumption: and qualitie, (that is as Pacius vnderstands it) when the minor is taken out of the maior; as in this example. If a man, then a living creature. But a man, therefore a living creature. And when it concludes by force of the qualitie of things disioyned: as in this example; It is either day, or night. But it is day. Therefore it is not night. He brings this at large Prior. lib. 1. cap. 23. & 29. If we vnderstand Aristotle thus, he agrees wholy with Ramus, and in all reason we should so vnderstand him. In the last place alledged, he doth promise to explicate how many wayes a Syllogisme is made Hypothetically: but (as Pacius truely sayes) the place where he doth it, is not to be found. And I am of opinion, that, he did willingly neglect it, because he doth suppose, that, every question, and argument may be framed, and concluded in a simple Syllogisme: and thus himselfe teacheth, prior. lib. 1. cap. 23.
The parts of the proposition, 5 in a connexe Syllogisme are called by the name of antecedent, and consequent; and that very fitly: for the one goes before, in place, and nature, the other followes accordingly; the one inferres, and the other is inferred.
The antecedent is ass [...]med, when the words of it are barely repeated in the second proposition, or assumption. If affirmatiue, or negatiue there, then they are affirmatiue, or negatiue here.
The consequent is concluded, when the latter part of the proposition, is barely repeated in the Conclusion. We haue examples of this kinde very frequent.
If God spared not the naturall branches, 6 he will not spare thee.
But God spared not the naturalibranches.
Therefore he will not spare thee.
In this example, the former part of the proposition, is barely repeated in [Page 295]the assumption: and the latter part, in the conclusion. And thus the question, and the third argument, is alwayes disposed in this kinde of Connexe Syllogismes: sometimes the proofe of the antecedent is assumed, not the antecedent it selfe: In that case, it must be reduced vnto this forme; an example of this is layd out in Moses words, Numb. 12.14.
If her Father had spit in her face, shee must be shut out.
But shee is leprous.
Therefore shee must be shut out.
This example assumes not the antecedent, but the proofe thereof, arguing the same from the greater to the lesse, thus. Her Father did it, because God did it. Her face is defiled with spittle: for it is Leprous.
This sort of Connexe Syllogismes, 7 may easily be reduced vnto a simple, for it doth change the manner of disposing very little: Wee may frame it thus;
He that spared not the naturall branches, hath no reason to spare thee.
But God spared not the naturall branches.
Therefore he hath no reason to spare thee.
In the 1 Cor. 15.12. 8 we haue an example of this kinde of Connexe, that seemes to be somewhat more difficult; Where the Apostle reasons thus:
If Christ be risen, then other men shall rise.
But Christ is risen: so I haue preached, and you beleeue.
Therefore the bodies of men shall rise.
I say, this example is more difficult then the former: for, the proposition hath two intire, and distinct simple axiomes in it: but it may be reduced, and brought into this forme.
They that say, that Christ is risen, must say, that men shall rise.
[Page 297]But you beleeue, and say, that Christ is risen: because I haue preached it.
Therefore you must say also, that men shall rise.
And this is wholly agreeable to the Apostles disputation: for he argueth against them that denyed the last: but in his judgement they might not doe so; because they did confesse the first. I hope I haue made this cleere enough to our vnderstandings: therefore I will passe to the next.
CHAP. LVII. Of the second kinde of Connexe Syllogismes.
TO take away (in this place) importeth, 1 the putting of a Contradiction: [Page 298]so as, the Contradictory to the latter part of the proposition, makes the assumption, and the Contradictory vnto the former part of the proposition, makes the Conclusion. The Apostle Gal. 3.18. giues vs an instance of this precept.
If the inheritance be of the Law, it is not of promise.
But it is of promise.
Therefore it is not of the Law.
The assumption in this argument, is Contradictory, to the latter part of the proposition, That sayth, the inheritance is not of promise. The assumption sayth, the inheritance i [...] of promise. In the like sort, the Conclusion is contradictory to the first part of the proposition. The one sayth, the inheritance is of the Law. The other sayth, the inheritance is not of the Law. This kinde, is easily (also) brought into a simple, thus:
Whatsoever is by the Law, is not of promise.
[Page 299]But the inheritance is of promise.
Therefore the inheritance is not of the Law.
This kinde of Conn [...]xe hath but three termes in it, viz. 1 Inheritance. 2. Promise. 3. Law. And the first is repeated, or twise subiected in the proposition, wherevpon this kinde is easily turned from compound to simple.
We haue an example Gal. 2.21. 2 that is not so easily conuerted.
If Iustice be by the Law, Christ is dead in vaine.
But Christ is not dead in vaine.
Therefore Iustice is not by the Law.
I haue propounded this Syllogisme cap. 44 and haue there shewed, how it may be made into a simple forme: therefore it is needlesse to repeate it here. The truth contained in these Syllogismes, is to be judged of, according to the precepts of a connexe axiome: if we take them as they are [Page 300]Connex. But if we take them as simple syllogismes, then their truth must be judged of, according to the precepts of a simple syllogisme. Therefore we haue sayd enough touching their naturall vse.
CHAP. LVIII. Of the first kinde of a Disjunct Syllogisme.
A compound Syllogisme is then disiunct, Ramus.when the proposition thereof is a disiunct axiome.
There are two sorts: The first doth take away the one, and conclude the other.
BY taking away, 1 and concluding, is here vnderstood Contradicting and repeating, in the same sort as I haue shewed, cap. 56. & 57. Aristotle calls these Hypotheticall; and so he well may: for the principall all foundation of them, is a supposition: for one [Page 301]thing is taken for granted, and that must be granted, or else they can conclude nothing.
By the word [one] is meant, 2 not one terme; but one part of the opposition: for, we must remember, that, no arguments but opposites come into the Syllogismes of this kinde; now opposites are sometimes one, against one, and some other times many against one: so as, those many make one part, and the other one, makes the other part: therefore, it is truely sayd, one is taken away, when all those are contradicted that make one part of the opposition: and one is assumed, when those many are barely repeated. Againe, that word one, is not vnderstood indifferently of either part of the opposition: for then, the cōtradicting of any one single terme, must inferre the concluding of all others that oppose that one: but that may not be: for onely one of them at once, can agree to the same subiect, in the same respect, part, and time. Therefore it is vnderstood of all the [Page 302]single termes that are disioyned, except one: because from thence, that one that is not Contradicted, may well be Concluded: but where one single terme is opposed vnto another single terme, there the Contradicting of either of them indifferently, doth inferre the Concluding of the other.
By this precept the proposition may be negatiue in some part, 3 and therefore those arguments that are opposed as Contradictories, haue place in this kinde of arguing. I will bring instances of all sorts to make these things plaine.
The second terme opposed in the proposition is negatiue, and that is Contradicted in the assumption: the first terme in the proposition is affirmatiue, and that is concluded or repeated in the Conclusion.
We haue another instance of this. 4 2 Sam. 24.13.
I must sustaine, either seven yeares famine, or three moneths pursuite, or three dayes pestilence
But I will not sustaine, seven yeares famine, nor three moneths pursuite.
Therefore I will sustaine three dayes pestilence.
This argument doth presume, that David must vndergoe one of these three, and no more, but that one. If that be granted, it doth inferre the Conclusion necessarily. If that be denyed, it hath no force to Conclude. In the assumption, two branches of the disjunction (comprehended in the proposition) are Contradicted: The third branch (vntouched in the assumption) is barely repeated in the Conclusion. We may bring this argument into a simple Syllogisme, in this sort.
He that may escape the famine, and [Page 304]sword, must indure the pestilence.
But David hath libertie to escape the famine and sword.
Therefore David must indure the pestilence.
The proposition presumes, that one of the three must be indured, and no more but one of them. If that be granted, the whole argument is good, if that be denyed, it hath no force to proue.
I will adde one example more, 5 that I may make this precept cleere to the vttermost.
Here is supposed, that every man hath one of these two, and but one of these: and thereupon, it inferres the conclusion necessarily: otherwise not. Wherein it agrees with the two former; It hath two single termes onely, opposed each to other; and it is indifferent [Page 305]whether of them two had beene Contradicted in the assumption, and concluded, or barely repeated in the Conclusion: for the forme of Syllogisme, and force of truth, is the same in both: and this doth make it differ from the two former. If we desire to see it made a simple syllogisme, we must frame it thus.
This precept is now made plaine enough, therefore I proceed to the second sort of a disjunct Syllogisme.
CHAP. LIX. Of the second kinde of Disjunct Syllogismes.
BY assuming, 1 is vnderstood a bare repeating, and taking away, is a contradicting: in the same sort as hath beene before set downe.
In this second kinde of disjunct Syllogisme: there are three properties. First, The proposition is who [...]y affirmatiue. Secondly, One single terme onely of the opposition, is repeated in the assumption. Thirdly, The other part is contradicted in the conclusion therfore this forme doth really differ from the former. That concludes affirmatiues, and no negatiues: this concludes negatiues, and no affirmatiues. Gal. Cap: 3 ver: 2.3. doth yeeld vs an argument of this kinde.
Yee received the spirit, either by the Law, or the Gospell.
But yee received it by the Gospell.
Therefore yee received it not by the Law.
2 This disputation doth suppose two [Page 307]things: first, They had the spirit. Secondly, one of these two, the law, or the Gospell gaue it them (not both together.) Those two things being granted the argument cannot be denyed. If either of them might be denied, the argument may not be granted. The assumption doth barely repeate the second terme opposed: and the conclusion doth contradict the first, I will adde this second instance.
This action, is either supernaturally good, or supernaturally evill, or naturally good, or naturally evill.
But it is supernaturally good.
Therefore it is, neither supernaturally evill, nor naturally good, nor naturally evill.
Here we finde first, 3 divers termes opposed in the proposition, one against many; and many against one. Secondly; They are all affirmatiue. Thirdly; The first terme is barely repeated in the assumption. Fourthly; The other three, are contradicted in [Page 308]the conclusion; Fiftly, A supposition that every action hath one of these properties, and no more but one of them.
The reason why one opposite terme onely, is assumed; and the rest contradicted, is: because but one opposite, can be in the subject at once, and the presence of that, doth inforce the absence of the rest.
We may bring these into simple Syllogismes, after this sort.
That act which is supernaturally good, is not supernaturally evill; nor naturally good, nor naturally evill.
But this act is supernaturally good.
Therefore it is, neither supernaturally evill, nor naturally good, nor naturally evill.
I doubt not, 4 but this will suffice to shew the truth, and vse of this precept. It is needles for me to set forth what truth is contained in these Syllogismes; for if we take them as disjunctiue, then they containe truth no [Page 309]otherwise then as disiunctiue axioms doe. If we take them as simple, then they must be referred vnto simple Syllogismes: therefore in the precepts of them, we shall know what truth is contained in these. I might also alledge the reason why Ramus doth prosecute all the precepts of Compound Syllogismes; and thereby justifie him. And for what cause Aristotle did but name them, & not prosecute them; and so justifie him also; but (I thinke) I haue done that sufficiently in the matter of Compound Axiomes. Cap. 42. they, and these, draw in one, and the same line: therefore I referre the Reader vnto that place. Repetitions are but lost labour.
Now we are come to an end of all the precepts of Logicke: so as, 5 there is no more required, to make a Logician, then what hath beene sayd alreadie. But that seemes not enough to Ramus, for he brings another member of this art, and calls it Methode: but I omit the same of purpose; for [Page 310]divers reasons. 1. No precepts of Logicke can teach it, because even (according to him) Method is no more, but the orderly placing of sentences together. But the precepts of Logicke cannot teach that, it being no more, but the generall nature of art, as wee haue alreadie found Cap. 1. (I say of art simply, abstracted from all particulars, and not applyed to Rhetorick, Logicke, or any other; as we do when we say Rhetoricke is an art &c.) 2. If any precepts of Logicke, haue power to teach the orderly framing of sentences together, then they must be, either some that are past, or some that are yet to come: if we must haue recourse to these, then their Authors, and places must be named. But that is impossible. If the precedent precepts do teach it, then we haue done enough alreadie, and can doe no more, except wee will repeat the same things againe. 3. If we define, and distribute according to the precepts of a definition and distribution, Cap. 34. &c. We cannot place definitions, [Page 311]and distributions, nor any other sentences that depend vpō them, vnduly and out of order; for then the most generall will come first, and the most speciall will come last: and this is all the Method Ramus required. 4. He alledges Aristotles authoritie for method; but altogether without cause; for he alledgeth no place, nor words, and I am sure he cannot. Aristotle calls all the precepts of Logicke a Method, whereby wee come to know, how to discusse. Top. lib. 1. cap. 2. lib 8. cap. 12. prior. lib. 1. cap. 31. therfore he did neuer meane to make Method, one member of his Art, distinct from the rest: seeing therefore we haue nothing to say touching Method, I must here put an end to the whole Worke.