"There are three principal means of acquiring knowledge... observation of nature, reflection, and experimentation. Observation collects facts; reflection combines them; experimentation verifies the result of that combination"

In this quote, Denis Diderot highlights the 3 main ways in which knowledge can be gotten. The first is through observation of nature, where one collects details and facts by closely analyzing the world around them. The second is through reflection, where one takes the collected truths and combines them to form a much deeper understanding and analysis. Finally, experimentation is used to evaluate and verify the results of this mix. Diderot highlights the significance of each of these methods, as they interact to expand our understanding and knowledge. By observing, reflecting, and experimenting, we have the ability to get a thorough understanding of the world and its workings.