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Science is a first-rate piece of furniture for a man's…

“Science is a first-rate piece of furniture for a man's upper chamber, if he has common sense on the ground-floor. But if a man hasn't got plenty of good common sense, the more science he has, the worse for his patient.” quote by Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr
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“Science is a first-rate piece of furniture for a man's upper chamber, if he has common sense on the ground-floor. But if a man hasn't got plenty of good common sense, the more science he has, the worse for his patient.”

Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr

About This Quote

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

Science without practical judgment can be harmful; common sense grounds its usefulness.

In simple terms: Science needs common sense to be helpful.

Key Takeaway

Balance knowledge with practical wisdom.

Themes

science common sense practicality

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • medical practice
  • policy making
  • education
  • personal decisions

Key Concepts

epistemology human judgment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you apply scientific knowledge responsibly?
  • When does expertise become a hindrance?
A Different Perspective

Excessive reliance on theory may ignore real-world nuances.

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