Decoding Reality
An interactive journey through Aristotle’s Categories, the foundational framework for understanding the nature of being and existence itself.
The Foundation of Being
Everything starts with Substance. It is the most fundamental reality—the independent entity upon which all other characteristics depend. It answers the question, “What is it?”
1. Substance (ousia)
Ontological Interpretation: The primary being that exists independently, not needing anything else to be what it is. It’s the foundational subject for all other categories.
Example: A specific human being or a particular tree. Their existence is primary; their height, color, or location are secondary attributes that depend on them.
The Attributes of Being
Once a substance exists, it can be described and understood through nine other categories. These attributes do not exist on their own; they exist *in* or are said *of* a substance.
2. Quantity (poson)
Describes the measurable, divisible aspect of a being. It’s the “how much” or “how many.”
Example: Two meters tall, 70 kilograms.
3. Quality (poion)
Represents the characteristics or nature of a being. It’s the “what kind.”
Example: The apple is red; the person is wise.
4. Relation (pros ti)
Defines how beings exist in reference to each other; their interconnected nature.
Example: A parent (in relation to a child); double (in relation to half).
5. Place (pou)
Specifies a being’s existence in a spatial context. It’s the “where.”
Example: In the marketplace; at home.
6. Time (pote)
Denotes existence within temporal boundaries. It’s the “when.”
Example: Yesterday; last year.
7. Position (keisthai)
Refers to how a being is situated or oriented; its posture.
Example: Sitting, standing, lying down.
8. State/Condition (echein)
The mode or condition that shapes a being’s existence, often temporarily.
Example: Water as liquid vs. ice as solid; wearing shoes.
9. Action (poiein)
Captures a being’s agency and its capacity to actively cause change.
Example: The fire burning the wood; the artist painting.
10. Passion (paschein)
Reflects a being’s capacity to be acted upon or influenced; its receptiveness.
Example: The wax being melted; the student being taught.
Visualizing the Hierarchy
This diagram shows how all other categories are ontologically dependent on Substance. They describe, measure, or relate to a substance, but cannot exist in isolation.
…and so on for all 9 other categories.
An Ontological Profile
We can visualize a complete being through the lens of the categories. This interactive radar chart shows a hypothetical profile for the substance “Socrates,” mapping his being across several key attributes.