Where Form 8854 Substantial 2023-2024

Okay, Michael, thank you for joining me today. We're going to cover substantial form. Last time, we covered primary matter, and now we're going to cover substantial form. Just like in primary matter, let's begin by exploring the etymology of the word "form." In modern language, form is used in various ways. For example, we talk about geometric forms like triangles, circles, and squares. Literary forms and musical forms are also discussed. These forms represent different kinds of things. Even geometric forms themselves are unique individuals. Next, we have the concept of filling out forms, like IRS forms. When we fill out a form, we put our identity and personal information on it. So perhaps the concept of identity is related to the use of the word form here. Form can also be associated with orderliness and definition. Think of formal lines in a tuxedo, for example. Then there is the word "formation," which has two aspects. One aspect is the geometric concept of shape or form, like airplanes flying in formation. The other aspect is education and the formation of students' moral consciences. Education will be important when we discuss substantial form later on. Information is another important term. It is the means by which we come to know things. As for the term "ance," it is a way of showing what we are through demonstration. In modern language, form retains meanings related to specification, determination, identity, and becoming. These meanings align with the philosophical use of the term form in the philosophy of nature. So, specification, determination, identity, and becoming are all intertwined with both accidental and substantial form. Let's now look at Aquinas' definition of substantial form. According to Aquinas, substantial form is that by which the thing is what it is. For example, the form dog...