3 ideas
13605 | Gravity isn't a force, because it produces effects without diminishing [Mayer] |
Full Idea: If gravity be called a force, a cause is supposed which produces effects without itself diminishing, and incorrect conceptions of the causal connexions of things are thereby fostered. | |
From: J.R. Mayer (Remarks on the forces of inorganic Nature [1842], p.199), quoted by Brian Ellis - Scientific Essentialism 8.03 | |
A reaction: This seems like a brilliant prelude to the proposal that gravity is actually the 'curvature' of space (whatever that is!). |
17593 | Always be ready to give reasons for your beliefs [Peter] |
Full Idea: Be ready to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. | |
From: St Peter (21: First Epistle of Peter [c.50], 3:15) | |
A reaction: This quotation is the rational theologian's standard response to pure fideism. |
1513 | The Egyptians were the first to say the soul is immortal and reincarnated [Herodotus] |
Full Idea: The Egyptians were the first to claim that the soul of a human being is immortal, and that each time the body dies the soul enters another creature just as it is being born. | |
From: Herodotus (The Histories [c.435 BCE], 2.123.2) |