Science, however, cannot create ends and, even less…
““Science, however, cannot create ends and, even less, instill them in human beings; science, at most, can supply the means by which to attain certain ends. But the ends themselves are conceived by personalities with lofty ethical ideals and—if these ends are not stillborn, but vital and vigorous—are adopted and carried forward by those many human beings who, half unconsciously, determine the slow evolution of society.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Science provides tools, not ultimate goals; moral aims come from human values and drive societal progress.
In simple terms: Science gives means, not ends.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate ethical vision alongside scientific work.
Themes
ethics
science
societal progress
human agency
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- policy making
- research planning
- education curricula
- public discourse
Key Concepts
philosophy of science
ethical idealism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you decide which ends are worth pursuing?
- What role should scientists play in shaping societal goals?
A Different Perspective
Science cannot dictate values; values must be consciously chosen.