I cannot but be astonished that Sarsi should persist in…
“I cannot but be astonished that Sarsi should persist in trying to prove by means of witnesses something that I may see for myself at any time by means of experiment. Witnesses are examined in doutbful matters which are past and transient, not in those which are actual and present. A judge must seek by means of witnesses to determine whether Peter injured John last night, but not whether John was injured, since the judge can see that for himself.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author argues that direct observation and experiment are more reliable than testimony for current facts.
In simple terms: Experiment beats testimony for present facts.
Key Takeaway
Trust what you can see.
Themes
science
empiricism
observation
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
scientific
When to use this quote
- lab work
- field research
- court testimony
- daily decision making
Key Concepts
methodology
verification
reliability
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance evidence and testimony?
- When is testimony essential?
A Different Perspective
Witnesses may be biased or inaccurate.