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[T]he creation out of nothing is no object of philosophy…

“[T]he creation out of nothing is no object of philosophy; … for it cuts away the root of all speculation, presents no grappling point to thought, … a baseless air-built doctrine, originated solely … to give warrant to … egoism, which … expresses nothing but the command to make Nature – not an…” quote by Ludwig Feuerbach
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““[T]he creation out of nothing is no object of philosophy; … for it cuts away the root of all speculation, presents no grappling point to thought, … a baseless air-built doctrine, originated solely … to give warrant to … egoism, which … expresses nothing but the command to make Nature – not an object of thought, of contemplation, but – an object of utilisation.””

Ludwig Feuerbach

About This Quote

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

Philosophy cannot prove creation from nothing; it is a speculative, ego‑driven doctrine that treats nature as a tool.

In simple terms: Creation from nothing is unprovable and serves egoism.

Key Takeaway

Question the basis of claims that deny nature’s intrinsic value.

Themes

philosophy egoism nature speculation utilitarianism

Mood

critical skeptical

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • ethical discussions
  • environmental policy

Key Concepts

metaphysics anthropocentrism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What assumptions underlie the idea that nature exists only for use?
  • How might recognizing nature’s intrinsic worth change our actions?
A Different Perspective

Such claims often ignore empirical evidence and can justify exploitation.

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