Endoxa philosophica & medica

VII.

The motion of a simple body according to nature is simple, and it is one for one, whether it be circular or straight. Moreover, that some thing is moved simultaneously by accident (because it is in that which is moved, 4 Physics t. 32) is not violent.

VIII.

To those latter things, namely those which are moved with a straight motion, it happens that they are elements. In which respect the four qualities will perhaps be able to be called their principles: yet in such a way that it can be affirmed without contradiction that these qualities are accidents, are the differences of simple bodies, are the forms and principles of them, are preliminary affections, and finally are the instruments of the elements.

IX.

Through these the generation of a mixed body occurs: which is the transmutation of passive qualities, such as the moist and the dry, by heat and cold, dominating over the passive ones.

X.

To mixed bodies, insofar as they are mixed, no motion is given, neither simple nor mixed: but only a determined and certain measure is had according to them.

XI.

However, composite motion is not present except in composite bodies, namely organic ones: nor yet in all. For the organic extends more widely.

XII.

Now, indeed, that something may be called organic, it happens by reason of the soul. For that is the first act of an organic body, or of that which has life in potentiality.

XIII.

Yet it is not denied on that account that it can also be called a second act.

XIV.

They seem, therefore, to think less correctly because they do not place the first act in the same genus as the second.