If his use of the weapon cannot be regarded as a decisive settlement of the true issues, we have to remember that he himself became aware in a very short time of its inadequateness, and proceeded to the discussion, as we shall presently see, from another side.
The scope of the Philosophical Thoughts, and the attitude of Diderot's mind when they were written, may be shown in a few brief passages.

The opening words point to the significance of the new time in one direction, and they are the key-note to Diderot's whole character.
"People are for ever declaiming against the passions; they set down to them all the pains that man endures, and quite forget that they are also the source of all his pleasures.

It is regarded as an affront to reason if one dares to say a word in favour of its rivals.

Yet it is only passions, and strong passions, that can raise the soul to great things.
Sober passions produce only the commonplace.

Deadened passions degrade men of extraordinary quality.