There is no greater impediment to the advancement of knowledge than the ambiguity of words. To this chiefly it is owing that we find sects and parties in most branches of science [and politics]; and disputes that are carried on from age to age, without being brought to issue.
Thomas ReidThere is no greater impediment to the advancement of knowledge than the ambiguity of words.
Thomas ReidIt is a question of fact, whether the influence of motives be fixed by laws of nature, so that they shall always have the same effect in the same circumstances.
Thomas ReidEvery conjecture we can form with regard to the works of God has as little probability as the conjectures of a child with regard to the works of an adult.
Thomas Reid