247–248
Stranger
Str. Then let us question them further; for if they are willing to admit that any existence, no matter how small, is incorporeal, that is enough. They will then have to tell what is which is inherent in the incorporeal and the corporeal alike, and which they have in mind when they say that both exit. Perhaps they would be at a loss for an answer; and if they are in that condition, consider whether they might not accept a suggestion if we offered it, and might not agree that the nature of being is as follows.
Theaetetus
Theaet. What is it? Speak, and we shall soon know.
15
Stranger
Str. I suggest that everything which possesses any power of any kind, either to produce a change in anything of any nature or to be affected even in the least degree by the slightest cause, though it be only on one occasion, has real existence. For I set up as a definition which defines being, that it is nothing else but power.
Theaetetus
Theaet. Well, since they have at the moment nothing better of their own to offer, they accept this.
Stranger
Str. Good; for perhaps later something else may occur to them and to us. As between them and us, then, let us asume that this is for the present agreed upon and settled.
Theaetetus
Theaet. It is settled.
Stranger
Str. Then let us go to the others, the friends of ideas; and do you interpret for us their doctrines also.
Theaetetus
Theaet. I will.
