Berkeley, George
"Three Dialogues Between Hylas And Philonous"
. He then who entertains no doubts concerning some
particular point, with regard to that point cannot be thought a
sceptic.
. I agree with you.
. Whether doth doubting consist in embracing the
affirmative or negative side of a question?
. In neither; for whoever understands English cannot
but know that signifies a suspense between both.
. He then that denies any point, can no more be said
to doubt of it, than he who affirmeth it with the same degree of
assurance.
. True.
. And, consequently, for such his denial is no more to
be esteemed a sceptic than the other.
. I acknowledge it.
. How cometh it to pass then, Hylas, that you
pronounce me , because I deny what you affirm, to wit,
the existence of Matter? Since, for aught you can tell, I am as
peremptory in my denial, as you in your affirmation.
. Hold, Philonous, I have been a little out in my
definition; but every false step a man makes in discourse is not
to be insisted on.
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