I believe that there never was a creator of a philosophical system who did not confess at the end of his life that he had wasted his time. It must be admitted that the inventors of the mechanical arts have been much more useful to men that the inventors of syllogisms. He who imagined a ship towers considerably above him who imagined innate ideas.

Summary

This quote by Voltaire suggests that philosophers, who create complex systems of thought, often realize in the end that their efforts have been in vain. In contrast, the inventors of practical things like mechanical arts, such as ships, have made far greater contributions to humanity. Voltaire believes that these practical innovations hold more significance and benefit people more than abstract philosophical ideas like innate ideas. The quote highlights Voltaire's preference for practical accomplishments over theoretical pursuits.

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