Ocellus Lucanus on the nature of the universe : $b Taurus, the Platonic philosopher, on the eternity of the world. Julius Firmicus Maternus of the thema mundi. Select theorems on the perpetuity of time, by Proclus.
Plato · en
_Demonstration._—For let A be that which moves the first motion: for
it is necessary that there should be something of this kind, because
everything which is moved is moved by something. But A, if it is that
which first moves, will be immoveable: for that which is immoveable is
the leader of all things which are moved. And, since it moves a perpetual
motion, it will possess an infinite power of moving; for finite powers
have also finite energies: for energy proceeds from power. So that if
its energy is infinite, its power also will be infinite. Hence, that
which first moves a circular motion, must necessarily either be body,
or incorporeal. But if body, it is either finite or infinite. There is
not however an infinite body. And if it is a finite body, it will not
possess an infinite power. But the powers of things bounded according to
magnitude are finite, as has been demonstrated. Hence, that which first
moves a circular motion, is not a body. It is therefore incorporeal, and
possesses infinite power.
FOOTNOTES:
[59] Simple bodies, according to Aristotle, are those which _naturally_
possess an inherent principle of motion. For animals and plants possess
a principle of motion; but in these it proceeds from soul and not from
nature.
[60] Hence the world is perpetual; for it is consubsistent with time.
THE END.
PRINTED BY RICHARD TAYLOR, RED LION COURT, FLEET STREET.