Nature Quote by Robert Boyle
“I consider then, that generally speaking, to render a reason of an effect or Phaenomenon, is to deduce It from something else in Nature more known than it self, and that consequently there may be divers kinds of Degrees of Explication of the same thing. For although such Explications be the most satisfactory to the Understanding, wherein 'tis shewn how the effect is produc'd by the more primitive and Catholick Affection of Matter, namely bulk, shape and motion, yet are not these Explications to be despis'd, wherein particular effects are deduc'd from the more obvious and familiar Qualities or States of Bodies...For in the search after Natural Causes, every new measure of Discovery does both instinct and gratifie the Understanding.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: The Sceptical Chymist, 1661
Understanding causes requires linking effects to more fundamental, known natural properties, allowing multiple levels of explanation.
In simple terms: Explain effects by tracing them to basic natural qualities.
Key Takeaway
Seek deeper causes beyond surface explanations.
Themes
science
philosophy
explanation
Mood
analytical
inquisitive
Type
scientific
philosophical
When to use this quote
- research
- education
- problem solving
- technical analysis
Key Concepts
causality
reductionism
hierarchy of explanation
Questions to Reflect On
- What basic property could explain this effect?
- How many explanatory levels are useful?
A Different Perspective
Complex phenomena may resist simple reduction to basic properties.
