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Dewey insisted that the present attachment to the…

“Dewey insisted that the present attachment to the principles and values of the American founding must be repudiated and replaced with the new scientific approach, which he argued addresses the modern social conditions of the collective. “The scientific attitude is experimental as well as…” quote by Mark R. Levin
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““Dewey insisted that the present attachment to the principles and values of the American founding must be repudiated and replaced with the new scientific approach, which he argued addresses the modern social conditions of the collective. “The scientific attitude is experimental as well as intrinsically communicative. If it were generally applied, it would liberate us from the heavy burden imposed by dogmas and external standards. Experimental method is something other than the use of blow-pipes, retorts and reagents. It is the foe of every belief that permits habit and wont to dominate invention and discovery, and ready-made system to override verifiable fact. Constant revision is the work of experimental inquiry. By revision of knowledge and ideas, power to effect transformation is given us. This attitude, once incarnated in the individual mind, would find an operative outlet. If dogmas and institutions tremble when a new idea appears, this shiver is nothing to what would happen if the idea were armed with the means for the continuous discovery of new truth and the criticism of old belief. To ‘acquiesce’ in science is dangerous only for those who would maintain affairs in the existing social order unchanged because of lazy habit or self-interest. For the scientific attitude demands faithfulness to whatever is discovered and steadfastness in adhering to new truth.””

Mark R. Levin

About This Quote

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

Advocates replacing rigid traditional values with a continuously experimental, evidence‑driven mindset to foster social progress.

In simple terms: Replace dogma with experimental inquiry.

Key Takeaway

Adopt a habit of constant revision based on evidence.

Themes

science progress critical thinking social reform

Mood

inquisitive determined optimistic

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education reform
  • policy making
  • research institutions
  • personal development
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

experimental method revisionism empowerment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies balance scientific revision with respect for tradition?
  • What safeguards prevent endless skepticism?
A Different Perspective

May overlook cultural continuity and emotional needs of communities.

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