Doe Quote by Anthony Ashley-Cooper, 7th Earl of Shaftesbury
“Gravity is of the very essence of imposture; it does not only mistake other things, but is apt perpetually almost to mistake itself.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophical essay, "Characteristics of the Mind", 1751
Gravity is presented as a metaphor for false certainty, suggesting even fundamental principles can be mistaken.
In simple terms: Even basic truths can be wrong.
Question assumptions constantly.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- scientific inquiry
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we test foundational beliefs?
- What role does doubt play in progress?
Some may view gravity as empirically proven.