'For the person or persons that hold dominion, can no more combine with the keeping up of majesty the running with harlots drunk or naked about the streets, or the performances of a stage player, or the open violation or contempt of laws passed by themselves than they can combine existence with non-existence'.

- Benedict de Spinoza. Political Treatise. 1677.




Monday, August 30, 2010

on certainty 626


626. Nor does it mean anything to say: “The English name of this colour is certainly ‘green’, – unless, of course, I am making a slip of the tongue or am confused in some way.” 



making a pretentious claim is not meaningless – it’s just stupid

‘a slip of the tongue’ – or ‘confusion’ indicates uncertainty

being aware of uncertainty – however that occurs – is a good thing –

this awareness keeps us honest – keeps us on our toes


© greg t. charlton. 2010.