The expression “rational animal” is not a random list of attributes. “Animal” is a genus: an essential notion shared by several species. “Rational” is a differentia: the essential distinguishing feature of the specified species. Their combination forms its classical definition.
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Why the two elements belong together
Mā Huwa: Asking What a Thing Is
The expression “rational animal” is not a random list of attributes. “Animal” is a genus: an essential notion shared by several species. “Rational” is a differentia: the essential distinguishing feature of the specified species. Their combination forms its classical definition.