The private motives of scientists are not the trend of…
“The private motives of scientists are not the trend of science. The trend of science is made by the needs of society: navigation before the eighteenth century, manufacture thereafter; and in our age I believe the liberation of personality. Whatever the part which scientists like to act, or for that matter which painters like to dress, science shares the aims of our society just as art does.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Science follows society’s needs, evolving from navigation to manufacturing to personal freedom.
In simple terms: Science serves societal goals.
Key Takeaway
Align research with societal benefit.
Themes
history
science
society
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
historical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- research funding
- education
- public discourse
Key Concepts
technological progress
human needs
liberation
Questions to Reflect On
- How should society prioritize scientific agendas?
- What role does curiosity play today?
A Different Perspective
May overlook pure curiosity‑driven science.