Arbitrary Quote by Jorge Luis Borges
“It is clear that there is no classification of the Universe that is not arbitrary and full of conjectures. The reason for this is very simple: we do not know what kind of thing the universe is.”
About This Quote
Our classifications of the universe are arbitrary because we lack fundamental understanding of its nature.
In simple terms: We label the unknown arbitrarily.
Key Takeaway
Embrace humility in scientific theories.
Themes
science
ontology
philosophy
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
academic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic research
- public policy
- education curricula
Key Concepts
classification
uncertainty
knowledge limits
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the risks of imposing categories?
- How can we remain open to new paradigms?
A Different Perspective
Overclassification can mislead and limit inquiry.
![“On those remote pages [of 'a certain Chinese encyclopedia'] it is written that animals are divided into (a) those that belong to the Emperor, (b) embalmed ones, (c) those that are trained, (d) suckling pigs, (e) mermaids, (f ) fabulous ones, (g) stray dogs, (h) those that are included in this…” quote by Jorge Luis Borges](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6bd/jorge-luis-borges-275_animal_on-those-remote-pages-of-a-certain-chine_1416502.jpg)
![“Physiognomy is not a guide that has been given us by which to judge of the character of men: it may only serve us for conjecture. [Fr., La physionomie n'est pas une regle qui nous soit donnee pour juger des hommes; elle nous peut servir de conjecture.]” quote by Jean de la Bruyere](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3cd/jean-de-la-bruyere-575_character_physiognomy-is-not-a-guide-that-has-been_207056.jpg)
