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All science is intelligent inference; excessive literalism…

“All science is intelligent inference; excessive literalism is delusion, not a humble bowing to evidence.” quote by Stephen Jay Gould
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“All science is intelligent inference; excessive literalism is delusion, not a humble bowing to evidence.”

Stephen Jay Gould

About This Quote

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

Science relies on intelligent inference; literalism misrepresents evidence and hinders understanding.

In simple terms: Science needs inference, not literalism.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize critical thinking over dogma.

Themes

science philosophy methodology

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

educational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • research
  • education
  • public communication

Key Concepts

epistemology critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does inference shape scientific progress?
  • When is literal interpretation useful?
A Different Perspective

Literalism can oversimplify complex data.

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