Science is what scientists do, not what nonscientists…
““Science is what scientists do, not what nonscientists think they do or ought to be doing. Wetenschap is wat wetenschappers doen. [Flanagan's motto as magazine editor for selecting content to put in Scientific American.]””
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 practitioners, not by lay expectations or obligations.
In simple terms: Science is what scientists do.
Respect expertise.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- education
- policy making
- media reporting
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we bridge the gap between scientists and the public?
- What responsibilities do scientists have in communication?
Public misconceptions can hinder scientific progress.