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Amending the ‘data’, or rejecting some as erroneous, is a…

“Amending the ‘data’, or rejecting some as erroneous, is a frequent concomitant of scientific discovery, and the crucial ‘data’ cannot even be obtained until theory tells us what to look for and how and why.” quote by David Deutsch
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““Amending the ‘data’, or rejecting some as erroneous, is a frequent concomitant of scientific discovery, and the crucial ‘data’ cannot even be obtained until theory tells us what to look for and how and why.””

David Deutsch

About This Quote

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

Scientific progress relies on editing data and theory together; data is only meaningful when guided by theoretical expectations.

In simple terms: Science edits data and theory together; theory directs data collection.

Key Takeaway

Align data collection with theoretical goals.

Themes

science methodology theory

Mood

analytical thought‑provoking

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • research design
  • experiment planning
  • data analysis
  • theory development

Key Concepts

Epistemology philosophy of science

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does theory shape what data you seek?
  • Can data ever be truly theory‑independent?
A Different Perspective

Theory may bias data interpretation, limiting objectivity.

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