Kitap 2
19.1
Let us first speak of the possible and the impossible. If of two contrary things it is possible that one should exist or come into existence, then it would seem that the other is equally possible; for instance, if a man can be cured, he can also be ill; for the potentiality of contraries, qua contraries, is the same.As a general rule, from their nature as contraries, although it may not be true in particular cases. If a man is ill, he may also be well, although in particular cases certain qualities may make him more liable to one or the other, e.g. he may suffer from an incurable disease (Schrader). Similarly, if of two like things the one is possible, so also is the other.
19.2
And if the harder of two things is possible, so also is the easier.
19.3
And if it is possible for a thing to be made excellent or beautiful,
19.4
it is possible for it to be made in general; for it is harder for a beautiful house to be made than a mere house.An argument a fortiori. If a beautiful house can be built, so can a house of any kind; for this is easier.
19.5
Again, if the beginning is possible, so also is the end; for no impossible thing comes, or begins to come, into existence; for instance, that the diameter of a square should be commensurable with the side of a square is neither possible nor could be possible. And when the end is possible, so also is the beginning; for all things arise from a beginning.
19.6
And if that which is subsequent in being or generation can come into being, so then can that which is antecedent; for instance, if a man can come into being, so can a child, for the child is antecedent; and similarly, if a child can come into being, so can a man, for the child is a beginning.
19.7
And things which we love or desire naturally are possible; for as a rule no one loves the impossible or desires it.
19.8
And those things which form the subject of sciences or arts can also exist and come into existence.
