"if i have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants." this is an old quote, one that isaac newton used to describe his own scientific efforts. it was his way of saying that the advances he contributed to science were only possible because a) he had exceptional vision. b) of divine guidance from heaven above. c) of the scientists and ideas that came before him. d) of the extremely large individuals who lifted him up.

The correct answer is C) of the scientists and ideas that came before him.

Explanation:

Isaac Newton was a prominent physicist mainly known for his theories and ideas regarding gravity, motion, mechanics, among others that are still used today due to their relevance and accuracy. Despite this, Newton recognized in a letter "If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants" which suggests Newton felt his theories and ideas were only possible due to previous theories and scientists that build the basis Newton used. Indeed, Newton's predecessors such as Kepler or Galilei were necessary for Newton and also he had the support of contemporary scientists. Thus, in this quote, Newton said that his advances were only possible because of the scientists and ideas that came before him.