Skip to content

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.” quote by Anthony Ashley-Cooper, 7th Earl of Shaftesbury
Download Open image
“Gravity is of the very essence of imposture; it does not only mistake other things, but is apt perpetually almost to mistake itself.”

Anthony Ashley-Cooper, 7th Earl of Shaftesbury

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.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions constantly.

Themes

philosophy science skepticism

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • scientific inquiry
  • educational curricula

Key Concepts

metaphor epistemology critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we test foundational beliefs?
  • What role does doubt play in progress?
A Different Perspective

Some may view gravity as empirically proven.

4.0 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Anthony Ashley-Cooper, 7th Earl of Shaftesbury

Explore all 34 Anthony Ashley-Cooper, 7th Earl of Shaftesbury quotes

More Doe quotes

Browse all 25,574 Doe quotes