Chance is a word void of sense; nothing can exist without a cause.

In this quote, Voltaire challenges the concept of chance by suggesting that it is a meaningless term. He argues that nothing in the universe occurs without a cause, implying that every event or outcome has a specific reason behind it. Voltaire’s perspective reflects his philosophical belief in determinism, the idea that all actions, events, and occurrences are caused by prior factors and that randomness or chance is merely an illusion.

The origin of this quote comes from Voltaire, a leading figure of the Enlightenment and one of the most influential philosophers of the 18th century. Known for his wit, criticism of religious and political institutions, and advocacy for reason and rationality, Voltaire often questioned established beliefs and systems. This quote is consistent with his rationalist worldview, where everything is seen as part of a logical and causal chain of events.

Voltaire’s rejection of chance emphasizes his belief in the importance of reason and understanding in the natural world. He suggests that instead of attributing outcomes to randomness or fate, we should seek to understand the causes that drive events. This view aligns with his broader philosophy, which championed human reasoning and the belief that the world can be understood through scientific inquiry and rational thought.

Ultimately, this quote reflects Voltaire’s commitment to rationalism and order, asserting that everything in life can be explained by cause and effect. By dismissing chance as an empty concept, he advocates for a worldview based on logic, where events are seen as part of a predictable, understandable framework rather than as random occurrences.