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OF MAXIMS.
1.

Maxims or Axioms are Self-evident Propositions.
THERE are a sort of propositions, which, under the name of MAXIMS and AXIOMS, have passed for principles of science: and because they are SELF-EVIDENT, have been supposed innate, without that anybody (that I know) ever went about to show the reason and foundation of their clearness or cogency.

It may, however, be worth while to inquire into the reason of their evidence, and see whether it be peculiar to them alone; and also to examine how far they influence and govern our other knowledge.
2.

Where in that Self-evidence consists.
Knowledge, as has been shown, consists in the perception of the agreement or disagreement of ideas.