Each department of knowledge passes through three stages. The theoretic stage; the theological stage and the metaphysical or abstract stage.

Summary

This quote implies that the development of knowledge in any field goes through three distinct stages. The "theoretic stage" represents the initial stage where knowledge is based on empirical observations and facts. The "theological stage" suggests that at some point, religious or supernatural explanations might dominate the understanding of that particular subject. Finally, the "metaphysical or abstract stage" indicates a stage where knowledge in that field becomes more abstract and theoretical, moving away from religious and supernatural explanations. This quote essentially indicates a historical progression or evolution of knowledge within different disciplines.

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