An ornamental woodcut headpiece consisting of a rectangular frame. At its center is an oval medallion containing a profile of a classical female figure, perhaps Minerva. The medallion is flanked on either side by thick, drooping floral and leaf garlands.

INTRODUCTION

TO THE TRUE AND UNHEARD-OF

PHYSICS. original: "PHYSICAM." In the 17th century, "Physics" or "Natural Philosophy" was a broad field encompassing the study of all natural phenomena, including chemistry, biology, and the "secrets" of the physical world.

There is absolutely nothing, most distinguished gentlemen original: "amplissimi viri." A formal academic address to a body of scholars or patrons., that leads students of natural science so far astray from the royal road, or hinders those who have already set out upon it with greater obstacles, than the diverse opinions of various famous men.

Any one of these men, once he has formed an opinion, tries to defend it tooth and nail even if he eventually discovers its flaws himself. Never has a mortal presented a thing so worthless or offensive to the world without it being praised and supported by some; of these followers, ignorance makes one group innocent, while a devotion to friendship or a craving for novelty excuses the other.