Absurdity Quote by Roger Cotes
“But shall gravity be therefore called an occult cause, and thrown out of philosophy, because the cause of gravity is occult and not yet discovered? Those who affirm this, should be careful not to fall into an absurdity that may overturn the foundations of all philosophy. For causes usually proceed in a continued chain from those that are more compounded to those that are more simple; when we are arrived at the most simple cause we can go no farther ... These most simple causes will you then call occult and reject them? Then you must reject those that immediately depend on them.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophical Treatise, early 18th century, attributed to Roger Cotes
Rejecting unknown causes as occult hinders philosophical progress; we must pursue deeper explanations.
In simple terms: Don't dismiss unknown causes; seek deeper understanding.
Key Takeaway
Embrace inquiry into hidden causes.
Themes
philosophy
science
causality
methodology
Mood
inquisitive
skeptical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- scientific research
- philosophical debate
- education
Key Concepts
epistemology
critical thinking
metaphysics
Questions to Reflect On
- What unknown causes might we be overlooking?
- How can we balance simplicity with thoroughness?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on simplicity can ignore complex realities.
