Argument is conclusive... but... it does not remove doubt, so that the mind may rest in the sure knowledge of the truth, unless it finds it by the method of experiment. For if any man who never saw fire proved by satisfactory arguments that fire burns. his hearer's mind would never be satisfied, nor would he avoid the fire until he put his hand in it that he might learn by experiment what argument taught.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the importance of experimental evidence in order to attain true knowledge and dispel doubt. While arguments may be convincing, they can never completely provide the assurance that direct experience brings. For example, someone can argue convincingly that fire burns, but only by actually putting one's hand in fire can they truly understand and believe it. Experimentation is the method through which our minds can be at ease, having acquired the essential personal experience that solidifies the truth and eliminates uncertainty.

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