I do not deny the existence of material substance merely…
“I do not deny the existence of material substance merely because I have no notion of it, but because the notion of it is inconsistent, or in other words, because it is repugnant that there should be a notion of it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He denies material substance because the concept is contradictory and repugnant, asserting that existence depends on perception.
In simple terms: He rejects matter as impossible, believing only ideas exist.
Question assumptions about reality.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- debate on reality
- scientific inquiry
- personal belief
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Is perception enough to explain existence?
- What role does material evidence play?
His view ignores practical utility of material explanations.