Everything in nature is the result of fixed laws.
The question of whether there exists a Creator and Ruler of the Universe has been answered in the affirmative by some of the highest intellects that have ever existed.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that some of the greatest minds believe in the existence of a Creator and a governing force behind the universe.
In this quote, Charles Darwin reflects on the question of the existence of a Creator or a ruling force in the universe, indicating that this profound inquiry has been addressed positively by some of the most brilliant thinkers throughout history. It invites contemplation on the relationship between science, faith, and the quest for understanding the cosmos, suggesting that the acceptance of a higher power is not limited to religious belief but has been supported by reason and intellect.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about science and religion, this quote could be used to highlight that intellect can coexist with belief in a higher power.
More from Charles Darwin
All quotes βThe highest possible stage in moral culture is when we recognize that we ought to control our thoughts.
I am quite conscious that my speculations run beyond the bounds of true science....It is a mere rag of an hypothesis with as many flaw[s] & holes as sound parts.
We cannot fathom the marvelous complexity of an organic being; but on the hypothesis here advanced this complexity is much increased. Each living creature must be looked at as a microcosm--a little universe, formed of a host of self-propagating organisms, inconceivably minute and as numerous as the stars in heaven.
I have called this principle, by which each slight variation, if useful, is preserved, by the term of Natural Selection.
we are always slow in admitting any great change of which we do not see the intermediate steps
Similar quotes
A miracle is a violation of the laws of nature; and as a firm and unalterable experience has established these laws, the proof against a miracle, from the very nature of the fact, is as entire as any argument from experience can possibly be imagined.
Each soul is a star and all stars are set in the infinite azure, the eternal sky-the Lord.
All of history is moving toward one great goal, the white-hot worship of God and His Son among all the peoples of the earth. Missions is not that goal. It is the means. And for that reason it is the second greatest human activity in the world.
Revolt is the mirror in which greed is forced to see itself.
Customs tell a man who he is, where he belongs, what he must do. Better illogical customs than none; men cannot live together without them.
To be sure I must; and therefore I may assume that your silence gives consent.