Skip to content

Science is a very human form of knowledge. We are always…

“Science is a very human form of knowledge. We are always at the brink of the known; we always feel forward for what is to be hoped. Every judgment in science stands on the edge of error and is personal. Science is a tribute to what we can know although we are fallible.” quote by Jacob Bronowski
Download Open image
“Science is a very human form of knowledge. We are always at the brink of the known; we always feel forward for what is to be hoped. Every judgment in science stands on the edge of error and is personal. Science is a tribute to what we can know although we are fallible.”

Jacob Bronowski

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 a human endeavor that constantly pushes the boundaries of knowledge, acknowledging its provisional nature and the fallibility of its practitioners.

In simple terms: Science is a hopeful, imperfect quest for truth.

Key Takeaway

Embrace uncertainty in learning.

Themes

knowledge humility progress

Mood

inquisitive hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • research
  • education
  • policy making
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

epistemology fallibility optimism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities do scientists have to communicate uncertainty?
  • How can we balance confidence with humility?
A Different Perspective

Science can be misused to claim certainty.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Jacob Bronowski

Explore all 140 Jacob Bronowski quotes

More Ascent quotes

Browse all 168 Ascent quotes