Read the classical definition in three steps:
1. 'Animal' places the human within a shared genus.
2. 'Rational' supplies the essential distinction within that genus.
3. Combining them characterizes the specific human nature.
Thus genus plus differentia forms a classical account of species definition and prepares for the later lesson on definitions.
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Unpacking rational animal
The Five Universals: Genus, Species, Differentia, Property, Common Accident
Read the classical definition in three steps:
1. 'Animal' places the human within a shared genus.
2. 'Rational' supplies the essential distinction within that genus.
3. Combining them characterizes the specific human nature.
Thus genus plus differentia forms a classical account of species definition and prepares for the later lesson on definitions.