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The motive of science was the extension of man, on all…

“The motive of science was the extension of man, on all sides, into Nature, till his hands should touch the stars, his eyes see through the earth, his ears understand the language of beast and bird, and the sense of the wind; and, through his sympathy, heaven and earth should talk with him. But…” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“The motive of science was the extension of man, on all sides, into Nature, till his hands should touch the stars, his eyes see through the earth, his ears understand the language of beast and bird, and the sense of the wind; and, through his sympathy, heaven and earth should talk with him. But that is not our science.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

About This Quote

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

Science aims to expand humanity’s reach, letting us understand and communicate with nature at all levels.

In simple terms: Science seeks to connect us with nature.

Key Takeaway

Pursue knowledge that bridges humanity and the natural world.

Themes

exploration knowledge humanity nature

Mood

inspired reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • research
  • environmental policy
  • technology development
  • public outreach

Key Concepts

philosophy empiricism interconnectedness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance lofty scientific aspirations with everyday constraints?
  • What responsibilities arise from deeper communion with nature?
A Different Perspective

Idealistic view may overlook practical limits of scientific application.

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