Single Idea 12568

[catalogued under 7. Existence / D. Theories of Reality / 2. Realism]

Full Idea

God has given me assurance enough of the existence of things without me.

Clarification

'Without' here means 'outside'

Gist of Idea

God assures me of the existence of external things

Source

John Locke (Essay Conc Human Understanding (2nd Ed) [1694], 4.11.03)

Book Reference

Locke,John: 'Essay Concerning Human Understanding', ed/tr. Nidditch,P.H. [OUP 1979], p.631


A Reaction

Is Locke committing a similar crime to Descartes? Descartes was circular about what is 'clear and distinct'. Locke uses inner existence to prove God, who is then rich enough at act as guarantor for what is external. Not circular. Over-reaching.