Skip to content

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…” quote by Joseph Addison
Download Open image
“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.”

Joseph Addison

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.

Key Takeaway

Recognize hidden connections.

Themes

fate causality morality

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal decisions
  • long‑term planning
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

philosophy history

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do hidden causes shape our lives?
  • Can good arise from evil actions?
A Different Perspective

Predicting outcomes is often impossible.

3.9 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Joseph Addison

Explore all 620 Joseph Addison quotes

More Causes quotes

Browse all 9,070 Causes quotes