Skip to content

Scientists were the embodiment of this new-fangled…

“Scientists were the embodiment of this new-fangled sobriety—impartial, businesslike, colorless, and reliable. Or so people assumed. For in actual practice, it was their supposed impartiality that allowed them to gain so much influence. One” quote by David Van Reybrouck
Download Open image
““Scientists were the embodiment of this new-fangled sobriety—impartial, businesslike, colorless, and reliable. Or so people assumed. For in actual practice, it was their supposed impartiality that allowed them to gain so much influence. One””

David Van Reybrouck

About This Quote

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

Scientists claim objectivity, yet their perceived neutrality grants them power, masking underlying biases.

In simple terms: Science’s claimed neutrality can hide influence.

Key Takeaway

Question the true neutrality of expertise.

Themes

science power bias

Mood

critical inquisitive

Type

analytical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • public trust
  • media reporting

Key Concepts

objectivity influence institutional authority

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we ensure true impartiality?
  • What safeguards protect against hidden agendas?
A Different Perspective

Bias may still affect outcomes.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by David Van Reybrouck

Explore all 4 David Van Reybrouck quotes

More Impartiality quotes

Browse all 72 Impartiality quotes