Individuals at the Intersection of Perspectives: Individuation of Material Substances in Avicenna’s Philosophy

Individuation presents a multifaceted problem within Avicenna’s philosophical system, appearing across various fields with multiple interpretations - whether as sets of quiddities, effects of causes or hylomorphic compounds. To address the occasional tensions between these different views, a contextual approach proves to be most effective, focusing on both external and internal perspectives, by studying individuals in light of the Greek philosophical tradition, Bahshamite theological teachings and the implications of Avicenna’s own system. This book provides a fresh, comprehensive analysis, demonstrating that Avicenna’s theory is coherent, with seemingly contradictory accounts complementing each other by offering different perspectives on the same individual.

István Lánczky, Avicenna Institute of Middle Eastern Studies, Piliscsaba; HUN-REN Hungarian Research Network, Budapest, Hungary.