THRO’OUT the Whole, we have had a particular regard, both in the Choice of the feveral heads, and in dwelling or amplifying upon ’em ; to the extending our Views, dilating our Knowledge, opening new Tracks, new scents, new Viftas. We have endeavour’d not only to furnifh the Mind ; but to inlarge it, and make it in fome meafure co-extend with the Dimenfions of all minds, in all Ages and Places, and under all Situations and Circumftances : as Language, in fome meafure, makes our Senfes do. With which view, we have given the Sentiments, Notions, Manners, Cuftoms, &c. of moft People, that have anything new, unufual, or hardy in ’em.

Chambers Cyclopaedia, 1728 preface