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Single Idea 17023

[from 'Principia Mathematica' by Isaac Newton, in 26. Natural Theory / D. Laws of Nature / 8. Scientific Essentialism / c. Essence and laws ]

Full Idea

I am by no means asserting that gravity is essential to bodies.

Gist of Idea

I am not saying gravity is essential to bodies

Source

Isaac Newton (Principia Mathematica [1687], Bk 3 Rule 3)

Book Reference

Newton,Isaac: 'Philosophical Writings' [CUP 2004], p.88


A Reaction

Notice that in Idea 17009 he does not rule out gravity being essential to bodies. This is Newton's intellectual modesty (for which he is not famous).

Related Idea

Idea 17009 I won't object if someone shows that gravity consistently arises from the action of matter [Newton]