Single Idea 13150

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / D. Laws of Nature / 8. Scientific Essentialism / e. Anti scientific essentialism]

Full Idea

The motions which the planets now have could not spring from any natural cause alone, but were impressed by an intelligent agent.

Gist of Idea

The motions of the planets could only derive from an intelligent agent

Source

Isaac Newton (Letters to Bentley [1692], 1692.12.10)

Book Reference

Newton,Isaac: 'Philosophical Writings' [CUP 2004], p.95


A Reaction

He is writing to a cleric, but seems to be quite sincere about this. Elsewhere he just says he doesn't know what causes gravity.