The philosophical and mathematical commentaries of Proclus on the first book of Euclid's elements (Vol. 1 of 2) : $b To which are added, A history of the restoration of Platonic theology, by the latter Platonists: And a translation from the Greek of Proclus's Theological elements — Plato — John Shaqi
The philosophical and mathematical commentaries of Proclus on the first book of Euclid's elements (Vol. 1 of 2) : $b To which are added, A history of the restoration of Platonic theology, by the latter Platonists: And a translation from the Greek of Proclus's Theological elements
Plato · en
on experiment, to reach the principle of the universe; not considering
that his undertaking was as ridiculous as that of the giants of old,
who attempted to invade the heavens, by placing Ossa upon Pelion, and
Olympus upon Ossa; and ignorant that
Heaven still, with laughter, the vain toil surveys,
And buries madmen in the heaps they raise.
The latter of these, Mr. Locke, is applauded for having, without
assistance from the ancients, explained the nature, and exhibited
the genuine theory of human understanding. But that this applause
is false, the preceding comparison between his and the ancient
philosophy, may evince; and the variety of other self-taught systems
which, like nocturnal meteors, blaze for a while, and then vanish
in obscurity, abundantly confirms. Had these men, indeed, when they
justly derided the barbarous writings of the schoolmen, explored the
works of antiquity, penetrated the wisdom they contain, and enriched
their native language with its illustration, they had doubtless been
celebrated by the latest posterity: but, desirous of becoming masters
in philosophy by intuition, they disdained the instruction of the
ancients, and vainly attempted to soar on artificial wings to the
very summit of science. They are, however, destined, like Icarus, to
a precipitate fall; for the influence of time, which is continually
dissolving the cement of their plumes, is likewise continually
weakening their force, and will at last effect their final separation.
And thus much concerning the doctrine of ideas, and numbers, according
to Pythagoras and Plato.
SECTION II.[22]
But let us now consider the properties of the demonstrative syllogism,
and endeavour to unravel its intricate web; appointing Aristotle for
our guide in this arduous investigation. For an enquiry of this kind
is naturally connected with the doctrine of ideas, as it enables us to
gain a glimpse of the universals participated in mathematical forms,
and to rise to the principles of science. It brings us acquainted with
the laws which bind demonstration; and teaches us that objects of
intellect are alone the objects of science, and the sources of truth.