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The fundamentalists, by 'knowing' the answers before they…

“The fundamentalists, by 'knowing' the answers before they start, and then forcing nature into the straitjacket of their discredited preconceptions, lie outside the domain of science -or any honest intellectual inquiry.” quote by Stephen Jay Gould
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“The fundamentalists, by 'knowing' the answers before they start, and then forcing nature into the straitjacket of their discredited preconceptions, lie outside the domain of science -or any honest intellectual inquiry.”

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 must start without preconceived answers; forcing data into false frameworks undermines truth.

In simple terms: Science needs open‑minded inquiry.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions before testing.

Themes

science methodology skepticism

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

scientific philosophical

When to use this quote

  • research labs
  • academic debates
  • policy analysis
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

philosophy of science critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you guard against bias?
  • What steps ensure honest inquiry?
A Different Perspective

Preconceptions can bias interpretation.

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