The old scientific ideal of episteme - of absolutely…
“The old scientific ideal of episteme - of absolutely certain, demonstrable knowledge - has proved to be an idol. The demand for scientific objectivity makes it inevitable that every scientific statement must remain tentative for ever.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Scientific knowledge is provisional; claims of absolute certainty become idols that hinder progress, so all statements must stay open to revision.
In simple terms: Science is always tentative, never final.
Key Takeaway
Embrace uncertainty and keep questioning.
Themes
science
philosophy
epistemology
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
theoretical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- research design
- policy making
- education curricula
- public discourse
Key Concepts
tentativeness
falsifiability
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance confidence with humility?
- What safeguards prevent endless revision?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on uncertainty can cause indecision.