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A miracle is a violation of the laws of nature; and as a…

“A miracle is a violation of the laws of nature; and as a firm and unalterable experience has established these laws, the proof against a miracle, from the very nature of the fact, is as entire as any argument from experience as can be imagined.” quote by David Hume
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““A miracle is a violation of the laws of nature; and as a firm and unalterable experience has established these laws, the proof against a miracle, from the very nature of the fact, is as entire as any argument from experience as can be imagined.””

David Hume

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Miracles contradict empirically established natural laws; because those laws are grounded in consistent experience, any claim of a miracle lacks evidential support.

In simple terms: Empirical evidence overrides supernatural claims.

Key Takeaway

Miracles are logically untenable.

Themes

epistemology philosophy of science skepticism natural law

Mood

thoughtful skeptical

Type

philosophical argumentative

When to use this quote

  • debating supernatural claims
  • evaluating extraordinary events
  • teaching critical thinking

Key Concepts

induction experience causality

Practical Applications

  • philosophical essays
  • science education

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we assess claims that defy known laws?
  • What role does experience play in shaping our understanding of reality?
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