Preface

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indifferent [words], and take for granted without proof that which often should have been proven most of all; indeed, they sometimes do not even connect their conclusions with one another, as should rightly be done. For this reason, only the mathematical sciences mathematical sciences; in the 18th century, this term encompassed not just arithmetic and geometry, but also "applied" fields like mechanics, optics, and even music theory remain, from which one can see the correct use of the powers of the understanding. And with this intention, in my Principles of the Mathematical Sciences original German: Anfangs-Gründen der Mathematischen Wissenschafften; this refers to Christian Wolff’s foundational textbook which aimed to organize all knowledge according to mathematical rigor, I have endeavored to present everything in such a manner, as far as possible, as it could have been discovered; and I also take care in my lectures original: Collegiis; from the Latin collegium, referring to university courses or lectures to incorporate such observations, so that, as much as is in my power, I may lead my listeners to reflection, since otherwise many obstacles are placed in their way.

However, no one should apply the common proverb to me, every shepherd praises his staff original German: ein jeder Schäfer lobet seine Keute; a folk idiom similar to "every potter praises his own pot," meaning everyone speaks well of their own profession or tools: for whoever knows me and does not wish to speak against his conscience will not refrain from giving me the testimony that the love for truth is above all else for me, and no one should dare to [place] me among the