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What counts is not what sounds plausible, not what we…

“What counts is not what sounds plausible, not what we would like to believe, not what one or two witnesses claim, but only what is supported by hard evidence rigorously and skeptically examined. Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.” quote by Carl Sagan
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“What counts is not what sounds plausible, not what we would like to believe, not what one or two witnesses claim, but only what is supported by hard evidence rigorously and skeptically examined. Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.”

Carl Sagan

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Claims must be backed by rigorous, skeptical evidence; extraordinary claims demand equally extraordinary proof.

In simple terms: Evidence must be strong for big claims.

Key Takeaway

Demand solid proof.

Themes

science skepticism evidence critical thinking

Mood

analytical inquisitive

Type

scientific philosophical

When to use this quote

  • research evaluation
  • media literacy
  • policy making

Key Concepts

extraordinary evidence methodological rigor logical analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify extraordinary claims?
  • What standards should guide evidence evaluation?
A Different Perspective

People may cling to beliefs despite lacking evidence.

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