Full Idea
A proof of actuality is a proof of possibility, but that does not invariably explain the possibility whose existence it demonstrates, for we may know that a certain thing is actual (and hence possible) but have no explanation of how it could be possible.
Gist of Idea
Actuality proves possibility, but that doesn't explain how it is possible
Source
Peter van Inwagen (Material Beings [1990], 12)
Book Reference
Inwagen,Peter van: 'Material Beings' [Cornell 1995], p.120
A Reaction
I like this, because my project is to see all of philosophy in terms of explanation rather than of description.
Related Idea
Idea 7950 Philosophy tries to explain how the actual is possible, given that it seems impossible [Macdonald,C]