Carl Linnaeus

Biological taxonomy

Early Modern influential 145 sayings

Sayings by Carl Linnaeus

God created, Linnaeus arranged. It is astonishing how many new species are discovered every day.

c. 1750s-1770s — A combination of his famous dictum and an observation on the ongoing work of discovery.
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The classes are for the genera, the genera for the species, the species for the individuals.

c. 1750s — Explaining the hierarchical structure of his classification system.
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All species of the same genus form a natural group, and all genera of the same order form a natural group.

c. 1750s — Underlying principle of his natural system.
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The more I collect and examine, the more I marvel at the infinite wisdom of the Creator.

c. 1730s-1770s — Further expression of his natural theology.
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I consider it the greatest achievement to be a good observer.

c. 1750s — Highlighting the importance of empirical observation in natural history.
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The purpose of science is to know the works of God.

c. 1730s-1770s — His teleological view of scientific inquiry.
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I have seen no one who has been able to distinguish the species of plants better than I have.

c. 1760s — A confident assertion of his expertise and skill.
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A world without names is a world without knowledge.

c. 1750s — Emphasizes the critical role of nomenclature.
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The greatest pleasure of a naturalist is to make new discoveries.

c. 1750s — Expressing the joy of scientific exploration.
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My life has been dedicated to the service of nature.

c. 1770s — Summary of his life's work.
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The most beautiful flower is the one that is most accurately drawn.

c. 1750s — Highlights the importance of precise illustration in botany.
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I have been called the Prince of Botanists.

c. 1760s — Reflecting the recognition and accolades he received.
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The system of nature is a mirror of God's wisdom.

c. 1730s-1770s — Further articulation of his theological perspective.
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The species are as numerous as the different forms which the Infinite Being produced in the beginning.

1751 — From 'Philosophia Botanica', expressing his belief in the fixity of species.
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I have been as happy as a king, and happier.

c. 1770s — Expressing personal contentment with his life and work.
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The highest good is to know God and His works.

c. 1730s-1770s — A statement of his ultimate philosophical goal.
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The whole world is a collection of wonders.

c. 1750s — Expressing his awe and appreciation for nature.
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I am not ashamed to confess that I have learned much from women.

c. 1760s — A somewhat progressive statement for his time, acknowledging female naturalists and contributors.
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Every plant is a book, which, if we want to understand, we must learn its language.

c. 1750s — An analogy for the study of botany.
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The greatest pleasure in life is to be able to do what you love.

c. 1770s — A general reflection on happiness, particularly relevant to his own life.
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