What counts as an object’s essential properties depends on theoretical purpose

Evidence

The choice of important characteristics of a phenomenon depends on theoretical context and purpose. Sometimes the theory focuses on transient characteristics of the object, e.g., its velocity. Sometimes superficial characteristics are important, e.g., the redness of copper matters to a designer. — Gary Goertz, Social Science Concepts and Measurement, 564

Categorization

• XREF: Echoes the measurement-validity debates in the reader’s existing notes on concepts as tools rather than natural kinds — connects to Sartori-style concept formation.
• SEED: Angle: ‘There is no natural essence to anything — why every definition is a hostage to purpose’ using surface vs. transient properties as the hook.