Every phenomenon, however trifling it be, has a cause, and…
“Every phenomenon, however trifling it be, has a cause, and a mind infinitely powerful, and infinitely well-informed concerning the laws of nature could have foreseen it from the beginning of the ages. If a being with such a mind existed, we could play no game of chance with him; we should always lose.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
All events, no matter how minor, have causes; a perfectly knowledgeable mind would predict them, making chance impossible.
In simple terms: Everything has a cause; a fully informed mind would see all outcomes.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of predictability.
Themes
determinism
knowledge
chance
Mood
contemplative
analytical
Type
philosophical
scientific
When to use this quote
- scientific research
- philosophical debate
- risk assessment
- strategic planning
Key Concepts
causality
infinite knowledge
Questions to Reflect On
- Can we ever truly know all causes?
- How does this view affect our sense of free will?
A Different Perspective
Assumes existence of an omniscient being, which is speculative.