Computers Quote by Carl Sagan
““Magnetism also was an influence felt at a distance, and in a stunning anticipation of the idea of universal gravitation, Kepler suggested that the underlying cause was akin to magnetism: My aim in this is to show that the celestial machine is to be likened not to a divine organism but rather to a clockwork …, insofar as nearly all the manifold movements are carried out by means of a single, quite simple magnetic force, as in the case of a clockwork [where] all motions [are caused] by a simple weight.””
About This Quote
Kepler proposed that a single magnetic-like force drives celestial motions, likening the universe to clockwork rather than a living organism.
In simple terms: A simple magnetic force powers the cosmos like a clock.
Key Takeaway
Seek underlying simple principles in complex systems.
Themes
science
philosophy
cosmology
mechanics
metaphor
Mood
curious
analytical
inspired
Type
philosophical
scientific
metaphorical
When to use this quote
- astronomy research
- engineering design
- systems analysis
- education
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
magnetism
gravity
clockwork
causality
reductionism
Questions to Reflect On
- What simple forces might underlie other complex phenomena?
- How does viewing the universe as clockwork affect our sense of wonder?
A Different Perspective
Complex systems may involve multiple interacting forces, not just one simple cause.
![“I am much occupied with the investigation of the physical causes [of motions in the Solar System]. My aim in this is to show that the celestial machine is to be likened not to a divine organism but rather to a clockwork ... insofar as nearly all the manifold movements are carried out by means of a…” quote by Johannes Kepler](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/452/johannes-kepler-4278_aim_i-am-much-occupied-with-the-investigatio_1011205.jpg)
![“[ When a religious couple wrote to Sagan about fulfilled prophecies, he wrote back in May 1996 :] If ‘fulfilled prophecy’ is your criterion, why do you not believe in materialistic science, which has an unparalleled record of fulfilled prophecy? Consider, for example, eclipses.” quote by Carl Sagan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/875/carl-sagan-160_belief_when-a-religious-couple-wrote-to-sagan-a_25095.jpg)
