Kitap 3
14
However, it is not worth while to consider seriously the subtleties of mythologists; we must ascertain by cross-examining those who offer demonstration of their statements why exactly things which are derived from the same principles are some of an eternal nature and some perishable. And since these thinkers state no reason for this view, and it is unreasonable that things should be so, obviously the causes and principles of things cannot be the same.
15
Even the thinker who might be supposed to speak most consistently, Empedocles, is in the same case; for he posits Strife as a kind of principle which is the cause of destruction, but none the less Strife would seem to produce everything except the One; for everything except GodThe expressions the One and God refer to Empedocles’ Sphere: the universe as ordered and united by Love. Cf. Empedocles, Fr. 26-29 (Diels). proceeds from it.
16
At any rate he says
16
From which grew all that was and is and shall be
16
In time to come: the trees, and men and women,
16
The beasts and birds and water-nurtured fish,
16
And the long-living Gods.Empedocles, Fr. 21. 9-12.
