Resumo:
The aim of the present study is to analyze the first three arguments presented by Duns Scotus,
in Ordinatio II, distinctio 3. Based on these arguments, Duns Scotus explains why the reason
of individuation cannot be an accident. The first argument is about the identity of the unity of
singularity, which is not the same as the numerical unity. We explain the concept of the
proper, real and sufficient unity for understanding the origin of the unity of singularity.
Individuation is part of the essence of something. Therefore, accidents are not the reason for
individuation. The second argument is from the ordering of substance to accident. The proper,
real and sufficient unity belongs to the substance of anything primarily and per se ; on the
other hand, unity of itself belongs to the substance of anything per se and not primarily. The
unity of itself is the first substance, because it per se generates and per se operates. Substance
is prior by nature to accident, therefore, it is also prior in duration. Then finally, the third
argument is about categorical hierarchy. In fact, in each categorical hierarchy, there are
contained all that pertain to that hierarchy, disregarding everything else that is not something
belonging essentially to that hierarchy.Thus, only essences are part of a categorical hierarchy
of essences. Accidents, therefore, are not part of such hierarchy and they are not relevant
essentially to entities that belong to such hierarchy. The categorical hierarchy is not the same
as the Porphyry’s tree.
