LessonsThe Five Universals: Genus, Species, Differentia, Property, Common AccidentQuiz

Humans and some other animals can be described as 'walking.' Does this make 'walker' their genus? No. Sharing an attribute is insufficient.
A genus must be an essential component of the natures compared. Walking or the capacity to walk may be an attribute external to their defining natures.
First ask whether the concept is shared; then ask whether it is essential.

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Not every shared attribute is a genus

The Five Universals: Genus, Species, Differentia, Property, Common Accident

Humans and some other animals can be described as 'walking.' Does this make 'walker' their genus? No. Sharing an attribute is insufficient.
A genus must be an essential component of the natures compared. Walking or the capacity to walk may be an attribute external to their defining natures.
First ask whether the concept is shared; then ask whether it is essential.