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There are worse sins for a scientist than to be wrong. One…

“There are worse sins for a scientist than to be wrong. One is to be trivial” quote by Robert MacArthur
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“There are worse sins for a scientist than to be wrong. One is to be trivial”

Robert MacArthur

About This Quote

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

Being wrong as a scientist is less severe than being trivial; the latter undermines scientific progress and credibility.

In simple terms: Triviality harms science more than occasional errors.

Key Takeaway

Avoid triviality, focus on meaningful contribution.

Themes

science integrity triviality responsibility

Mood

reflective critical serious

Type

Inspirational:0 Love:0 Science:1 Scientist:1 Sin:0 Worse Sins:0 Scientist Wrong:0 Sins Scientist:0 Wrong Trivial:0

When to use this quote

  • research design
  • peer review
  • public communication
  • policy advice

Key Concepts

epistemology professional ethics impact

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes a scientific contribution trivial?
  • How can one balance humility and significance?
A Different Perspective

Trivial work can be dismissed, limiting influence.

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