Herein mathematiques have the advantage over metaphysiques and morality. Their definitions, being of words not yet known to ye learner, are not disputed; but words in metaphysiques & morality, being mostly known to all, the definitions of them may chance to be contraverted.
M.
The short jejune way in mathematiques will not do in metaphysiques & ethiques: for yt about mathematical propositions men have no prejudices, no anticipated opinions to be encounter'd; they not having yet thought on such matters. 'Tis not so in the other 2 mentioned sciences. A man must [there] not onely demonstrate the truth, he must also vindicate it against scruples and established opinions which contradict it. In short, the dry, strigose[221], rigid way will not suffice. He must be more ample & copious, else his demonstration, tho' never so exact, will not go down with most.
Extension seems to consist in variety of homogeneal thoughts co-existing without mixture.
Or rather visible extension seems to be the co-existence of colour in the mind.
S. Mo.
Enquiring and judging are actions which depend on the operative faculties, wch depend on the Will, wch is determin'd by some uneasiness; ergo &c. Suppose an agent wch is finite perfectly indifferent, and as to desiring not determin'd by any prospect or consideration of good, I say, this agent cannot do an action morally good. Hence 'tis evident the suppositions of A. B. are insignificant.
Extension, motion, time, number are no simple ideas, but include succession to them, which seems to be a simple idea.
Mem. To enquire into the angle of contact, & into fluxions, &c.