The book groups examples such as humans, oxen, trees, pomegranate trees and stones. As the set widens, the common essential category becomes broader.
Individuals of one species — a species-level answer can work.
Different animal species — animal.
Animals and plants — growing body.
Animals, plants and stones — body.
Opening interactive controls...
The progression in the book’s longer example
Mā Huwa: Asking What a Thing Is
The book groups examples such as humans, oxen, trees, pomegranate trees and stones. As the set widens, the common essential category becomes broader.
Individuals of one species — a species-level answer can work.
Different animal species — animal.
Animals and plants — growing body.
Animals, plants and stones — body.