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The basic question that the 'new science' raises for our…

“The basic question that the 'new science' raises for our balance sheet is the issue of what scientific questions have not been asked for 500 years, which scientific risks have not been pursued. It raises the question of who has decided what scientific risks were worth taking, and what have been…” quote by Immanuel Wallerstein
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“The basic question that the 'new science' raises for our balance sheet is the issue of what scientific questions have not been asked for 500 years, which scientific risks have not been pursued. It raises the question of who has decided what scientific risks were worth taking, and what have been the consequences in terms of the power structures of the world.”

Immanuel Wallerstein

About This Quote

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

The quote challenges us to consider which scientific questions have been ignored for centuries and who decides which risks are worth taking, highlighting power dynamics in knowledge production.

In simple terms: We often overlook old scientific questions and let power decide which risks to pursue.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions about ignored research and who controls scientific agendas.

Themes

science power history risk knowledge

Mood

critical reflective

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic research funding
  • policy making
  • corporate R&D
  • public health initiatives
  • environmental studies

Key Concepts

epistemology sociology political economy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who decides which scientific risks are worth taking?
  • How can marginalized perspectives influence research priorities?
A Different Perspective

Power structures may bias which questions are funded, limiting innovation.

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