For it is the duty of an astronomer to compose the history…
“For it is the duty of an astronomer to compose the history of the celestial motions or hypotheses about them. Since he cannot in any certain way attain to the true causes, he will adopt whatever suppositions enable the motions to be computed correctly from the principles of geometry for the future as well as for the past.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Astronomers must model celestial motions using hypotheses, as true causes are uncertain; geometry aids computation.
In simple terms: Use models when causes unknown.
Key Takeaway
Adopt practical hypotheses.
Themes
science
astronomy
methodology
Mood
analytical
historical
Type
Astronomers:1
Causes:0
Celestial:1
Certain:0
Duty:0
Future:0
Geometry:1
History:1
Hypothesis:1
Past:0
Principles:1
Science:1
Supposition:1
Way:0
Wells:0
Astronomer Compose:0
Duty Astronomer:0
History Celestial:0
Celestial Motions:1
Motions Hypotheses:1
When to use this quote
- academic research
- educational curricula
- instrument design
Key Concepts
philosophy of science
historical astronomy
theoretical modeling
Questions to Reflect On
- How do hypotheses shape scientific progress?
- What limits geometry in astronomy?
A Different Perspective
Models may be inaccurate.