eigindlegur

Eigindlegur is an Icelandic term used to describe properties that a thing has in itself, independently of external circumstances or relations. In philosophy and science, it is often employed to distinguish intrinsic properties from relational or extrinsic properties, which depend on a thing’s context, connections to other objects, or observers.

In discussions, eigindlegur typically refers to attributes that are inherent to the object or system rather than dependent on location, perspective, or interaction with other entities. Examples commonly cited include mass or internal chemical identity, as opposed to relational properties such as position, ownership, or measurement from a particular vantage point. The term is used to frame debates about which properties count as intrinsic and how to identify them across disciplines.

The exact usage of eigindlegur varies among authors. Some writers treat it as synonymous with intrinsic properties, while others reserve it for a particular subset of attributes deemed essential to the nature of the object. Discussions may also contrast eigindlegur properties with extrinsic or dependent properties, highlighting methodological differences in fields like metaphysics, physics, and cognitive science.

Etymology and linguistic notes: the word is built from Icelandic roots that convey notions of “own” or “inherent,” formed into an adjective to describe a kind of property. In Icelandic philosophical and scientific texts, it appears alongside related terms such as eiginleikar or eðli, with nuances that vary by author and context.

See also: intrinsic property; essential property; intrinsic vs extrinsic properties.