Skip to content

Certain Quote by Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon

“It appears that all that can be, is. The Creator's hand does not appear to have been opened in order to give existence to a certain determinate number of species, but it seems that it has thrown out all at once a world of relative and non-relative creatures, an infinity of harmonic and contrary…” quote by Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon
Download Open image
“It appears that all that can be, is. The Creator's hand does not appear to have been opened in order to give existence to a certain determinate number of species, but it seems that it has thrown out all at once a world of relative and non-relative creatures, an infinity of harmonic and contrary combinations and a perpetuity of destructions and replacements. What idea of power is not given us by this spectacle! What feeling of respect for its Author is not inspired in us by this view of the universe!”

Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon

About This Quote

Source Book: Histoire Naturelle, 1749

The universe’s vast, chaotic diversity showcases immense power and inspires awe, challenging narrow, deterministic views.

In simple terms: Nature’s chaos shows power and awe.

Key Takeaway

Embrace humility before the cosmos.

Themes

wonder humility science philosophy

Mood

inspiring thought‑provoking

Type

philosophical scientific

When to use this quote

  • education
  • public speaking
  • science communication
  • philosophical debate

Key Concepts

cosmology complexity creation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does recognizing complexity affect your worldview?
  • What responsibilities arise from awe of creation?
A Different Perspective

Human understanding remains limited.

2.0 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon

Explore all 31 Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon quotes

More Certain quotes

Browse all 13,673 Certain quotes