Skip to content

Science is the observation of things possible, whether…

“Science is the observation of things possible, whether present or past; prescience is the knowledge of things which may come to pass, though but slowly.” quote by Leonardo da Vinci
Download Open image
“Science is the observation of things possible, whether present or past; prescience is the knowledge of things which may come to pass, though but slowly.”

Leonardo da Vinci

About This Quote

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

Science studies what can be, while prescience imagines what might become, though slowly.

In simple terms: Science sees possibilities; prescience predicts future.

Key Takeaway

Balance observation with foresight.

Themes

science future knowledge

Mood

analytical curious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • research planning
  • strategic forecasting
  • innovation
  • risk assessment
  • long‑term vision

Key Concepts

epistemology philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you use both science and foresight?
  • What limits does slow prescience impose?
A Different Perspective

Prescience is uncertain and may mislead.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Leonardo da Vinci

Explore all 664 Leonardo da Vinci quotes

More May quotes

Browse all 33,019 May quotes