I noticed affixed to a laboratory door the following…
![“I noticed affixed to a laboratory door the following words: "Les théories passent. Le Grenouille reste. [The theories pass. The frog remains.] &mdashJean Rostand, Carnets d'un biologiste." There is a risk that in the less severe discipline of criticism the result may turn out to be different; the…” quote by Frank Kermode](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/a4a/frank-kermode-16485_criticism_i-noticed-affixed-to-a-laboratory-door-t_2051059.png)
“I noticed affixed to a laboratory door the following words: "Les théories passent. Le Grenouille reste. [The theories pass. The frog remains.] &mdashJean Rostand, Carnets d'un biologiste." There is a risk that in the less severe discipline of criticism the result may turn out to be different; the theories will remain but the frog may disappear.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage warns that while scientific theories evolve, the underlying reality (the frog) may be lost if we focus only on abstract ideas.
In simple terms: Theories change, but the real thing can disappear.
Key Takeaway
Stay grounded in concrete reality.
Themes
science
philosophy
epistemology
change
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- laboratory research
- academic debate
- policy formulation
- education curricula
Key Concepts
theory
reality
observation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance theory with tangible evidence?
- What safeguards prevent loss of essential facts?
A Different Perspective
It may overstate the fragility of reality.