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The universe, the whole mass of things that are, is…

“The universe, the whole mass of things that are, is corporeal, that is to say, body, and hath the dimensions of magnitude, length, breadth and depth. Every part of the universe is ‘body’ and that which is not ‘body’ is no part of the universe, and because the universe is all, that which is no part…” quote by Thomas Hobbes
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““The universe, the whole mass of things that are, is corporeal, that is to say, body, and hath the dimensions of magnitude, length, breadth and depth. Every part of the universe is ‘body’ and that which is not ‘body’ is no part of the universe, and because the universe is all, that which is no part of it is nothing, and consequently nowhere.””

Thomas Hobbes

About This Quote

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

The quote asserts that everything that exists is material, having physical dimensions, and anything non‑material does not belong to the universe.

In simple terms: All that exists is material; non‑material is nothing.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the material basis of reality.

Themes

materialism ontology philosophy

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical theoretical

When to use this quote

  • scientific inquiry
  • philosophical debate
  • education
  • worldview formation

Key Concepts

metaphysics substance theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does it mean for something to be “non‑body”?
  • Can ideas influence material reality?
A Different Perspective

It overlooks abstract concepts like mathematics or consciousness that may not be strictly corporeal.

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