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Bodies are real entities. Surfaces and lines are but…

“Bodies are real entities. Surfaces and lines are but fictitious entities. A surface without depth, a line without thickness, was never seen by any man; no; nor can any conception be seriously formed of its existence.” quote by Jeremy Bentham
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“Bodies are real entities. Surfaces and lines are but fictitious entities. A surface without depth, a line without thickness, was never seen by any man; no; nor can any conception be seriously formed of its existence.”

Jeremy Bentham

About This Quote

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

Physical reality consists of tangible entities; surfaces and lines are abstract concepts without true existence.

In simple terms: Only solid things truly exist.

Key Takeaway

Focus on tangible reality.

Themes

philosophy ontology materialism abstraction

Mood

critical inquisitive

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • science education
  • architectural design
  • visual arts
  • philosophical debate

Key Concepts

metaphysics epistemology

Questions to Reflect On

  • When do you rely on abstractions?
  • What are the limits of physical perception?
A Different Perspective

Abstract models are useful despite their non‑physical nature.

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