Therefore, a grotesque account of a period some thousands…
![“Therefore, a grotesque account of a period some thousands of years ago is taken seriously though it be built by piling special assumptions on special assumptions, ad hoc hypothesis [invented for a purpose] on ad hoc hypothesis, and tearing apart the fabric of science whenever it appears…” quote by James Bryant Conant](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/d45/james-bryant-conant-20515_accounts_therefore-a-grotesque-account-of-a-perio_3011065.jpg)
“Therefore, a grotesque account of a period some thousands of years ago is taken seriously though it be built by piling special assumptions on special assumptions, ad hoc hypothesis [invented for a purpose] on ad hoc hypothesis, and tearing apart the fabric of science whenever it appears convenient. The result is a fantasia which is neither history nor science.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A claim mixes unfounded assumptions, creating a narrative that pretends to be both history and science but fails both.
In simple terms: Mixing assumptions creates a false story.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions before accepting.
Themes
critical thinking
science
history
skepticism
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- media analysis
- policy making
- education
- public discourse
Key Concepts
epistemology
methodology
bias
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence supports the claim?
- How can we separate fact from speculation?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook genuine evidence in favor of narrative.