The very essence of things is totally changed. You neither…
““The very essence of things is totally changed. You neither are agreed upon the definition of the soul nor on that of matter. Descartes, as I observed in my last, maintains that the soul is the same thing with thought, and Mr. Locke has given a pretty good proof of the contrary. Descartes asserts farther, that extension alone constitutes matter, but Sir Isaac adds solidity to it. How furiously contradictory are these opinions! Non nostrum inter vos tantas componere lites (Virgil).””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The nature of soul and matter is debated, with Descartes linking soul to thought and Locke opposing, while Descartes sees matter as extension alone and Newton adds solidity, highlighting philosophical contradictions.
In simple terms: Philosophers disagree on what soul and matter are.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that definitions evolve with new arguments.
Themes
philosophy
metaphysics
debate
history of ideas
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
analytical
historical
When to use this quote
- academic discussion
- theoretical research
- educational curricula
- public lectures
- intellectual salons
Key Concepts
Cartesian dualism
Lockean empiricism
Newtonian physics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do differing definitions of soul affect moral reasoning?
- What practical implications arise from viewing matter as solid versus merely extended?
A Different Perspective
These debates can become abstract and detached from everyday experience.