Single Idea 5716

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 1. Nature]

Full Idea

Nature is free and uncontrolled by proud masters and runs the universe by herself without the aid of gods.

Gist of Idea

Nature runs the universe by herself without the aid of gods

Source

Lucretius (On the Nature of the Universe [c.60 BCE], II.1094)

Book Reference

Lucretius: 'On the Nature of the Universe', ed/tr. Latham,Ronald [Penguin 1951], p.92


A Reaction

A nice remark. This apparent personification of nature implies the application of laws to an essentially passive reality. See Idea 5442 and Nature|Laws of Nature|Essentialism for a different view.

Related Idea

Idea 5442 For 'passivists' behaviour is imposed on things from outside [Ellis]