Paradox

T W E N T YKant and the Antinomyof Pure ReasonDr. Jean-Christophe Marchand conjectures that the Critiqueof Pure Reason was produced by a brain tumor. Until the ageof forty-seven, the scientist Immanuel Kant wrote clearly.Astronomers recognize him as the inventor of the nebularhypothesis: planets, stars, and galaxies formed from dust thatswirled together under the force of gravity. In the NaturalHistory and Theory of the Heavens Kant writes, “Millions andwhole myriads of millions of centuries will flow on, duringwhich always new worlds and systems of worlds will beformed. . . . The creation is never finished or complete.”Kant (1724-1804) had an active social life that consistedmostly of dinner parties. There are a few hints at romance. Inone letter, dated June 12, 1762, Frau Maria Charlotta Jacobisends Kant a kiss from her and her girlfriend. She suggests thatKant “may wind her watch” the next time they meet.Kant continued to publish steadily until 1771. Then hefell into his silent decade. In 1781, Kant emerged with the