Able Quote by William Whewell
“Nobody since Newton has been able to use geometrical methods to the same extent for the like purposes; and as we read the Principia we feel as when we are in an ancient armoury where the weapons are of gigantic size; and as we look at them we marvel what manner of man he was who could use as a weapon what we can scarcely lift as a burden.”
About This Quote
Source Book: History of the Inductive Sciences, 1840
Newton’s mathematical brilliance feels like a massive, awe‑inspiring arsenal, far beyond ordinary human capacity.
In simple terms: Newton’s math is like huge, powerful weapons.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the rarity of such genius.
Themes
science
history
genius
Mood
admiring
thoughtful
Type
historical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- academic study
- science education
- public lectures
Key Concepts
geometrical methods
intellectual magnitude
Questions to Reflect On
- What modern fields could benefit from similarly revolutionary methods?
- How can we make complex ideas more accessible?
A Different Perspective
Not everyone can achieve such scale of insight.
![“In science its main worth is temporary, as a stepping-stone to something beyond. Even [Newton's] Principia ... is truly but the beginning of a natural philosophy. Co-author with his brother Julius Hare.” quote by Augustus William Hare](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/132/augustus-william-hare-7245_brother_in-science-its-main-worth-is-temporary-a_3069238.jpg)
![“We need very much a name to describe a cultivator of science in general. I should incline to call him a scientist. [The first use of the word.]” quote by William Whewell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c81/william-whewell-17887_firsts_we-need-very-much-a-name-to-describe-a-c_609740.jpg)
