It is not what the man of science believes that…
“It is not what the man of science believes that distinguishes him, but how and why he believes it. His beliefs are tentative, not dogmatic; they are based on evidence, not on authority or intuition.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Science is defined by provisional, evidence‑based belief rather than authority or intuition.
In simple terms: Science relies on evidence, not dogma.
Question evidence, avoid certainty.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- research
- education
- policy making
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you test the basis of your convictions?
- What role does uncertainty play in scientific progress?
Beliefs may be influenced by cultural bias despite evidence.