If, in the course of a thousand or two thousand years…
“If, in the course of a thousand or two thousand years, science arrives at the necessity of renewing its points of view, that will not mean that science is a liar. Science cannot lie, for it's always striving, according to the momentary state of knowledge, to deduce what is true. When it makes a mistake, it does so in good faith. It's Christianity that's the liar. It's in perpetual conflict with itself.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Science evolves with new evidence and corrects errors honestly, unlike doctrines that resist change.
In simple terms: Science updates truth; faith may resist.
Key Takeaway
Embrace scientific humility and revision.
Themes
science
truth
faith
error correction
Mood
thoughtful
critical
inquisitive
Type
analytical
philosophical
controversial
When to use this quote
- academic research
- policy making
- education
- public discourse
Key Concepts
epistemology
philosophy of science
religion
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance respect for tradition with scientific progress?
- What safeguards ensure honest correction?
A Different Perspective
Science’s self‑correction can be slow and politicized.