Skip to content

Thus natural science is not a way of knowing the real…

“Thus natural science is not a way of knowing the real world; its value lies not in its truth but in its utility; by scientific thought we do not know nature, we dismember it in order to master it.” quote by R.G. Collingwood
Download Open image
““Thus natural science is not a way of knowing the real world; its value lies not in its truth but in its utility; by scientific thought we do not know nature, we dismember it in order to master it.””

R.G. Collingwood

About This Quote

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

Science isn’t about discovering ultimate truth, but about usefulness; it dissects nature to control it.

In simple terms: Science serves utility, not truth.

Key Takeaway

Use science wisely.

Themes

science philosophy utility knowledge limits

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • research planning
  • technological development
  • ethical review

Key Concepts

Epistemology instrumentalism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How should we balance usefulness and truth?
  • When does scientific control become harmful?
A Different Perspective

Utility can conflict with ethical concerns.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by R.G. Collingwood

Explore all 5 R.G. Collingwood quotes

More Knowing quotes

Browse all 7,350 Knowing quotes