I. Uncommon Sense

Abstract

a century after newton, in 1784, the progress of that century was celebrated in an anonymous memorial lodged in the ball of the tower of St. Margaret’s church at Gotha, to be found by men of future times. It read:

“Our days comprise the happiest period of the eighteenth century ... Hatred born of dogma and the compulsion of conscience sink away; love of man and freedom of thought gain the upper hand. The arts and sciences blossom, and our vision into the workshop of nature goes deep. Artisans approach artists in perfection; useful skills flower at all levels. Here you have a faithful portrait of our time ... Do the same for those who come after you and rejoice!”