Body Quote by George Berkeley
“In short, if there were external bodies, it is impossible we should ever come to know it; and if there were not, we might have the very same reasons to think there were that we have now.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophical Treatise: A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge, 1710
If external entities exist, we cannot know them; if they don’t, we still have reasons to believe they do, based on our perceptions.
In simple terms: Our knowledge of unseen forces is uncertain, yet we still assume they exist.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about unseen realities.
Themes
epistemology
skepticism
metaphysics
perception
reality
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
analytical
Type
philosophical
theoretical
reflective
When to use this quote
- When evaluating claims about unseen forces, examine evidence
- consider alternative explanations
- remain open to uncertainty
Key Concepts
Philosophy
science
theology
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence would change your belief about unseen entities?
- How do you balance skepticism with practical belief?
A Different Perspective
Our reasoning may be biased by expectations; absolute certainty may be unattainable.
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