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Science
A sign is the consequence of an action that was previously observed. Signs that are less observed are less certain than those signs that are observed all the time. Prudence is the presumption of future events based on the experience of past signs.
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Sign Term Timeline in Leviathan
The timeline below shows where the term Sign appears in Leviathan. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Chapter 3: Of the Consequence or Trayne of Imaginations
...is because those with the most experience have the “most Signes to guesse by.” A sign is a consequence of an action that was previously observed, and those signs that are...
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Chapter 5: Of Reason, and Science
...and memory are the knowledge of facts; however, science “is the knowledge of Consequences.” Some signs within science are certain, others are not; however, all the signs of prudence are uncertain.
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Chapter 12: Of Religion
...to be religious, it must also include a miracle. Wise people of sound judgement require signs to believe in any one argument, and in religion, that required sign is a miracle....
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Chapter 26: Of CIVILL LAWES
...it is not enough that a law is written and known—there must also be some sign that said law comes directly from the sovereign power. A law must be “verified,” Hobbes...
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Chapter 37: Of MIRACLES, and their Use
...prompted by God that causes admiration in others. The general purpose of miracles is to signify God’s commandment, and in scripture, miracles are often called signs. A miracle is rare, and...
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