Subterranean Physics

INTRODUCTORY.

By setting aside those things which belong to another kind of judgment, I do not believe that those things which deserve praise should be cheated of it for that reason. Indeed, if one were pleased to turn their mind to these matters, it would surely be necessary to investigate more solid evidence for condemning a man’s reputation than public rumor, the hatred of the court, the accusations of persecutors, the condemnations of the religious, or any testimony given in one's own cause. But these matters are no longer our concern; we make this our business, however: that Becher, in this Subterranean Physics, regarding the Theory of Genesis original: "Theoriam Geneseos," referring to the origin or formation of minerals or rather the substantial foundation original Greek: "ὑποστάσεως" (hypostasis) of subterranean things, has used such solid theories, arguments, and experiments; and that he has possessed and employed such knowledge, industry, skill, and consistency, and such circumspection in connecting and concluding this argument, as no one else has to this day—neither before him, nor after him, nor even through him.

Desist, I pray, and refrain—especially you who judge without authority or good faith in what you do—from attributing to me here that I am indirectly seeking my own praise while I so praise Becher, as if I hoped to prove myself equal to his interpretation. Consider for yourselves, according to your own mental concepts (to which nothing is esteemed if it is sterile, small, or more conspicuous for reason than for use and profit), whether you would not do me a notable injury if you attributed material or occasion for exulting, arrogance, or pride to a man who is certainly not—as you all know—completely dull or stupid, especially in matters so sterile, speculative, and remaining far below the meticulous precision original Greek: "ἀκρίβειαν" (akribeian) of today’s absolute mechanical demonstrations. Indeed, for this very reason, you ought rather to expect a harsh judgment from more moderate observers regarding your own judgment—if such a concern exists.

The things which, beyond these arguments, can most solidly free me from any suspicion of excessive self-confidence are these: I. That our author's entire theory, as well as its foundations, proofs, and experiments, is a matter simple and plain in itself, and already well-organized and confirmed by the author. II. That I have applied my mind to this matter for many years now; which is witnessed by the Lecture Course Collegium: a private series of academic lectures or a study group common in 17th-century German universities held by me at Jena in the year 1684; which, as it had been dictated by me for the pen, came into the hands of many through the curiosity and diligence of students. III. That very little—indeed, as far as I honestly know, nothing—of esteem or reputation has this Author’s Physics obtained among all those who, by their remaining erudition or office, could have or should have applied any further refinement to these matters. IV. Even if the grea...