"It is curious to reflect, for example, upon the remarkable legend of the Philosopher's Stone, one of the oldest and most universal beliefs, the origin of which, however far back we penetrate into the records of the past, we do not probably trace its real source"

This quote by Frederick Soddy talks to the power of legends and beliefs that have been passed down through generations. He is referring to the legend of the Philosopher's Stone, which is an ancient belief that a stone can be used to turn base metals into gold. Soddy is recommending that no matter how far back we look into the past, we may never have the ability to trace the true origin of this belief. He is highlighting the power of legends and beliefs that have been passed down through generations, and how they can stay appropriate and powerful even after centuries. This quote speaks to the power of stories and how they can remain appropriate and powerful even after centuries. It likewise talks to the value of understanding the origins of our beliefs and stories, and how they can form our understanding of the world.