Causes Quote by Joseph Addison
“There is not any present moment that is unconnected with some future one. The life of every man is a continued chain of incidents, each link of which hangs upon the former. The transition from cause to effect, from event to event, is often carried on by secret steps, which our foresight cannot divine, and our sagacity is unable to trace. Evil may at some future period bring forth good; and good may bring forth evil, both equally unexpected.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Spectator, 1712
Every moment links to future events, forming an unseen chain where good and evil can interchange unexpectedly.
In simple terms: Life is a chain of cause and effect, often hidden.
Recognize hidden connections.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal decisions
- long‑term planning
- ethical dilemmas
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do hidden causes shape our lives?
- Can good arise from evil actions?
Predicting outcomes is often impossible.