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Single Idea 13153

[from 'Principia Mathematica' by Isaac Newton, in 27. Natural Reality / A. Classical Physics / 1. Mechanics / c. Forces ]

Full Idea

I consider in this treatise not the species of forces and their physical qualities, but their quantities and mathematical proportions.

Gist of Idea

I am studying the quantities and mathematics of forces, not their species or qualities

Source

Isaac Newton (Principia Mathematica [1687], 1.1.11 Sch)

Book Reference

Newton,Isaac: 'Philosophical Writings' [CUP 2004], p.86


A Reaction

Note that Newton is not denying that one might contemplate the species and qualities of forces, as I think Leibniz tried to do, thought he didn't cast any detailed light on them. It is the gap between science and metaphysics.