thoughts on aphorisms

Aphorism is the most concentrated form of wisdom. Always formulated in the present tense, with an eye on timelessness, it steers clear of ephemeral notions. Merely concerned with the unchanging generalities, it has absolutely no intention to change the world.

Unfortunately, despite its power, aphorism also happens to be the most ungrateful form of written expression, immediately assuming a life of its own. It fools its author by feigning authenticity during birth, and once born, it reveals its completely generic nature and longing for immediate anonymity. (Moreover, the closer the author hits the truth, the greater is the longing for anonymity.)

Contrast this with how science works. There is no such thing as a scientific aphorism because scientists are different creatures. They do not aim for universality, they aim for (and are less humble about) precision instead.

Also, aphorisms are great for destructing, not constructing. They are like stones that can be thrown at already existing systems of thought, not useful for building brand new systems from scratch.

Related posts: Thoughts on Abstraction, Deliberate Vagueness