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The following general definition of an animal: a system of…

“The following general definition of an animal: a system of different organic molecules that have combined with one another, under the impulsion of a sensation similar to an obtuse and muffled sense of touch given to them by the creator of matter as a whole, until each one of them has found the…” quote by Denis Diderot
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“The following general definition of an animal: a system of different organic molecules that have combined with one another, under the impulsion of a sensation similar to an obtuse and muffled sense of touch given to them by the creator of matter as a whole, until each one of them has found the most suitable position for its shape and comfort.”

Denis Diderot

About This Quote

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

An animal is a collection of molecules organized by a shared sensory drive to find optimal arrangement for comfort and function.

In simple terms: Animals are organized molecules seeking comfortable positions.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the role of sensory integration in living systems.

Themes

biology philosophy organization

Mood

curious analytical

Type

scientific descriptive

When to use this quote

  • Ecology
  • medical diagnostics
  • robotics design
  • material science
  • education

Key Concepts

Systems theory emergence sensory perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does sensory input guide cellular organization?
  • What limits this definition in modern biology?
A Different Perspective

Oversimplifies complex evolutionary and genetic factors.

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