Quote by Simone Weil

Mathematics alone make us feel the limits of our intelligence. For we can always suppose in the case of an experiment that it is inexplicable because we don't happen to have all the data. In mathematics we have all the data and yet we don't understand. We always come back to the contemplation of our human wretchedness. What force is in relation to our will, the impenetrable opacity of mathematics is in relation to our intelligence.


Mathematics alone make us feel the limits of our intelligenc

Summary

This quote suggests that mathematics, unlike other fields, exposes the limits of our intelligence. While in experiments we may attribute lack of understanding to missing data, in mathematics, where all the necessary data is available, we still struggle to fully comprehend it. The quote implies that the incomprehensibility of mathematics reflects the limitations of our own intelligence, ultimately humbling us and reminding us of our human weaknesses. Mathematics serves as a force that reveals the unyielding opacity that our intelligence cannot penetrate.

By Simone Weil
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