2.
So conversation was substituted for writing; and from this conversation I shall communicate to you the topic which is still the subject of debate; for we have appointed you referee.
You have more of a task on your hands than you suppose, for the argument is threefold.
Our Stoic philosophers, as you know, declare that there are two things in the universe which are the source of everything,—namely, cause and matter.
Matter lies sluggish, a substance ready for any use, but sure to remain unemployed if no one sets it in motion.
Cause, however, by which we mean reason, moulds matter and turns it in whatever direction it will, producing thereby various concrete results.
Accordingly, there must be, in the case of each thing, that from which it is made, and, next, an agent by which it is made.
The former is its material, the latter its cause.
Book: Moral Letters Vol I
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On the first cause
Location: Chapter 65, Section 2
Content:
2.
So conversation was substituted for writing; and from this conversation I shall communicate to you the topic which is still the subject of debate; for we have appointed you referee.
You have more of a task on your hands than you suppose, for the argument is threefold.
Our Stoic philosophers, as you know, declare that there are two things in the universe which are the source of everything,—namely, cause and matter.
Matter lies sluggish, a substance ready for any use, but sure to remain unemployed if no one sets it in motion.
Cause, however, by which we mean reason, moulds matter and turns it in whatever direction it will, producing thereby various concrete results.
Accordingly, there must be, in the case of each thing, that from which it is made, and, next, an agent by which it is made.
The former is its material, the latter its cause.