In Aristotle's Four Causes, which cause pertains to the purpose of an object?

In Aristotle's framework of the Four Causes, the final cause specifically addresses the purpose or end for which an object exists. This cause explains the ‘why’ behind the existence of an object, focusing on its intended function or goal. For instance, if we consider a knife, the final cause would be to cut; it exists with this purpose in mind.

The other causes serve different roles: the material cause pertains to the substance or matter from which a thing is made, the formal cause relates to the form or essence that defines the object, and the efficient cause concerns the agent or force responsible for bringing the object into existence. Thus, the final cause uniquely highlights the purpose or intended outcome associated with an object, situating it as a critical part of understanding the full nature of things according to Aristotle.