Depends Quote by Bernard le Bovier de Fontenelle
“They will have the World to be in Large, what a Watch is in Small; which is very regular, and depends only upon the just disposing of the several Parts of the Movement.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Conversations on the Plurality of Worlds, 1686
The quote suggests that the world operates on a grand scale, while a watch functions on a tiny, precise scale, both governed by regular, orderly parts.
In simple terms: Large world vs. small watch, both orderly
Key Takeaway
Recognize order in both macro and micro systems.
Themes
order
scale
mechanics
philosophy
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
scientific
When to use this quote
- engineering
- watchmaking
- astronomy
- philosophical discourse
Key Concepts
systems theory
determinism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does recognizing small parts help manage large systems?
- What limits exist in comparing macro and micro orders?
A Different Perspective
May oversimplify complex systems to mere parts.
