While most science moves in a sort of curve, being…
““While most science moves in a sort of curve, being constantly corrected by new evidence, this science flies off into space in a straight line uncorrected by anything. But the habit of forming conclusions, as they can really be formed in more fruitful fields, is so fixed in the scientific mind that it cannot resist talking like this. It talks about the idea suggested by one scrap of bone as if it were something like the aeroplane which is constructed at last out of whole scrapheaps of scraps of metal. The trouble with the professor of the prehistoric is that he cannot scrap his scrap. The marvellous and triumphant aeroplane is made out of a hundred mistakes. The student of origins can only make one mistake and stick to it.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Science often follows a straight, uncorrected path, ignoring mistakes that fuel progress; flexibility and error are vital for true discovery.
In simple terms: Science needs mistakes.
Key Takeaway
Embrace error.
Themes
science
methodology
learning
creativity
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- research
- education
- innovation
- policy
- personal growth
Key Concepts
philosophy of science
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you incorporate mistakes product learning?
- What habits limit your flexibility?
A Different Perspective
Rigid methods can stifle breakthroughs.