key term - Prime Mover

Definition

The prime mover is a philosophical concept introduced by Aristotle, referring to the initial cause of motion in the universe that itself is unmoved. This idea is fundamental to Aristotelian science and cosmology, as it addresses the nature of change and existence, positing that all motion must originate from something that is not moved by anything else. The prime mover is considered necessary for explaining the existence of movement and the cosmos's eternal nature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aristotle argued that every motion requires a cause, leading to the conclusion that there must be a first cause or prime mover that is itself not caused by anything else.
2. The prime mover is often identified with a divine being or God in Aristotelian philosophy, suggesting an eternal, unchanging source of all activity in the universe.
3. Unlike other entities in motion, which can change and be influenced by external factors, the prime mover is characterized by its perfection and inability to change.
4. Aristotle believed that the prime mover was responsible for the circular motion of celestial bodies, providing a necessary explanation for their eternal movement.
5. The concept of the prime mover has influenced various philosophical and theological discussions about causality and the nature of God throughout history.

Review Questions

• How does Aristotle's concept of the prime mover address questions about motion and change in the universe?
  • Aristotle's concept of the prime mover addresses questions about motion by asserting that every change or motion requires an initial cause. The prime mover serves as this uncaused cause, explaining how movement can exist without an infinite regression of movers. By positing an unmoved source of motion, Aristotle provides a foundational explanation for why things change and move, thereby grounding his cosmological framework.
• In what ways does the idea of the prime mover connect to Aristotle's Four Causes and his overall philosophical system?
  • The idea of the prime mover connects to Aristotle's Four Causes by serving as an explanation for efficient causes in his framework. The prime mover represents the ultimate efficient cause that initiates motion without itself being moved, aligning with the idea that understanding existence requires analyzing its origins. Thus, it underpins not just cosmological discussions but also ethical and metaphysical inquiries in Aristotle's broader philosophical system.
• Evaluate how Aristotle's concept of the prime mover has influenced subsequent philosophical and theological thought about causality.
  • Aristotle's concept of the prime mover has profoundly influenced later philosophical and theological thought regarding causality and the nature of divinity. Thinkers like Thomas Aquinas adopted this idea to argue for the existence of God as an uncaused cause within Christian theology. This connection has led to ongoing debates about first causes in cosmology and metaphysics, impacting various interpretations of divine action and existence across multiple philosophical traditions.

Related terms

Unmoved Mover: Another term for the prime mover, emphasizing its role as the ultimate source of motion without being subject to any change or influence.

Aristotle's Four Causes: A framework established by Aristotle that describes four types of explanations for why a thing exists or changes: material, formal, efficient, and final causes.

Cosmology:

The study of the origins and development of the universe, which in Aristotelian thought includes understanding the role of the prime mover in explaining the cosmos.