Prime mover

Definition

The prime mover is a central concept in Aristotle's philosophy, referring to an uncaused cause or the ultimate source of all motion and change in the universe. This notion posits that there must be a first cause that itself is not moved or changed by anything else, which Aristotle identifies as pure actuality, existing outside of space and time. The prime mover initiates motion without itself being moved, providing a necessary explanation for the existence and movement of all things.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aristotle's prime mover is characterized as eternal and changeless, existing outside the physical world yet essential for explaining motion within it.
2. The prime mover operates through attraction, drawing other entities towards itself without directly interacting with them.
3. This concept helps to resolve philosophical questions about causality, where everything that moves must have a prior cause, leading back to the prime mover.
4. Aristotle argues that multiple movers would lead to an infinite regress of causes, thus necessitating a singular prime mover.
5. The prime mover is often equated with Aristotle's conception of God, embodying perfection and the ultimate purpose of existence.

Review Questions

• How does Aristotle use the concept of the prime mover to address issues of motion and causality in his philosophy?
  • Aristotle introduces the prime mover as a solution to the problem of infinite regress in causality. He argues that every motion must have a cause, and if we trace back these causes, we cannot have an endless chain of movers; there must be a first cause that itself is unmoved. This uncaused cause, or prime mover, initiates all motion and change without being affected by anything else, ensuring a coherent explanation for why things move.
• Discuss the relationship between the prime mover and teleology in Aristotle's cosmology.
  • In Aristotle's framework, the prime mover serves as both the initiator of motion and the final cause toward which all things aspire. This means that not only does it start movement, but it also represents an ultimate purpose that directs entities towards their goals. The teleological aspect emphasizes that everything in nature has a specific end or function that aligns with the influence of the prime mover, showcasing how motion is not random but guided by this perfect source.
• Evaluate how Aristotle's concept of the prime mover compares with modern scientific understandings of cosmology and motion.
  • Aristotle's notion of the prime mover contrasts sharply with contemporary scientific views on motion and causality, which are grounded in empirical evidence and physical laws. Modern physics explains motion through forces like gravity and inertia rather than attributing it to an ultimate cause. However, discussions about origins still resonate with Aristotle's idea; debates surrounding concepts like the Big Bang may evoke questions similar to those posed by Aristotle regarding what initiated existence. This comparison highlights enduring philosophical inquiries about causation and purpose in both ancient philosophy and modern science.

Related terms

Unmoved Mover: A term used interchangeably with prime mover, emphasizing that this entity does not change or move but is responsible for initiating all movement in the cosmos.

Cosmology: The study of the origins and structure of the universe, including the nature of existence and the role of the prime mover in explaining the cosmos.

Teleology: The philosophical study of design and purpose in nature, which is related to the prime mover's role in directing the movement towards specific ends or goals.