Simple Existence Quote by John Stuart Mill
““Besides the propositions which assert Sequence or Co-existence, there are some which assert simple Existence; 36 and others assert Causation, which, subject to the explanations [pg 083] which will follow in the Third Book, must be considered provisionally as a distinct and peculiar kind of assertion.””
About This Quote
Source Book: System of Logic, 1843, Chapter on Propositions
Some statements assert mere existence, while others claim causation, requiring provisional treatment as distinct assertion types.
In simple terms: Existence vs. causation statements differ.
Distinguish types of claims.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- legal reasoning
- scientific hypothesis testing
- ethical analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we classify simple existence claims?
- When is provisional treatment necessary?
Complexity may obscure practical application.