This volume brings together twelve essays exploring the history of theories of definition and essence in Western philosophy from Aristotle to Kant. Its broad historical sweep also facilitates comparisons between different figures.

Peter R. Anstey is Professor of Philosophy in the School of Humanities, University of Sydney, Australia. He specialises in early modern philosophy.

David Bronstein is co-director of the Centre for the History of Philosophy and Associate Professor and Senior Research Fellow in the Institute for Ethics and Society, University of Notre Dame Australia. He specialises in ancient Greek and Roman philosophy with a focus on Aristotle.