[T]his progress of the physical sciences, which the…
““[T]his progress of the physical sciences, which the passions and interest do not interfere to disturb; wherein it is not thought that birth, profession, or appointment have given a right to judge what the individual is not in a situation to understand; this more certain progress cannot be observed, unless enlightened men shall search in the other sciences to bring them continually together. This progress at every step exhibits the model they ought to follow; according to which they may form a judgment of their own efforts, ascertain the false steps they may have taken, preserve themselves from pyrrhonism as well as credulity, and from a blind mistrust or too extensive submission to the authorities even of men of reputation and knowledge.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote argues that true scientific progress must be free from personal bias and authority, urging continual integration of all sciences to avoid both extreme skepticism and gullibility.
In simple terms: Science should be unbiased and interdisciplinary.
Seek truth beyond authority.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic research
- policy making
- education reform
- personal decision making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance respect for expertise with independent inquiry?
- What mechanisms prevent bias in scientific collaboration?
May overlook practical constraints of interdisciplinary work.