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Planets Quote by Charles Darwin

“We can allow satellites, planets, suns, universe, nay whole systems of universes, to be governed by laws, but the smallest insect, we wish to be created at once by special act.” quote by Charles Darwin
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“We can allow satellites, planets, suns, universe, nay whole systems of universes, to be governed by laws, but the smallest insect, we wish to be created at once by special act.”

Charles Darwin

About This Quote

The quote contrasts the acceptance of natural laws governing cosmic scales with the desire for a special, non‑natural creation of the smallest life forms, highlighting a tension between scientific explanation and belief in divine intervention.

In simple terms: Science explains the cosmos; creationism seeks a special act for life.

Key Takeaway

Science vs. faith tension

Themes

cosmology philosophy of science theology creationism natural law

Mood

reflective inquisitive

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • debates on evolution vs. creationism
  • educational curricula design
  • public policy on science funding
  • religious discussions about origins

Key Concepts

natural law special creation scale cosmic vs. microscopic

Practical Applications

  • science education
  • interfaith dialogue

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does invoking special creation for small organisms affect our view of natural laws?
  • What are the implications of treating different scales with different explanatory frameworks?
A Different Perspective

Some argue that invoking special creation for insects undermines scientific consistency across scales.

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