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Crisis alone is not enough. There must also be a basis…

“Crisis alone is not enough. There must also be a basis, though it need be neither rational nor ultimately correct, for faith in the particular candidate chosen.” quote by Thomas Kuhn
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“Crisis alone is not enough. There must also be a basis, though it need be neither rational nor ultimately correct, for faith in the particular candidate chosen.”

Thomas Kuhn

About This Quote

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

Scientific shifts need a foundational belief, even if irrational, to support a chosen paradigm.

In simple terms: Faith in a theory can be irrational but necessary.

Key Takeaway

Accept that some beliefs are pragmatic.

Themes

science paradigm shift belief rationality

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • technology adoption
  • academic debate
  • political campaigns

Key Concepts

epistemology social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What role does irrational belief play in scientific progress?
  • How can we balance pragmatism with truth?
A Different Perspective

Rational justification may be lacking, leading to dogmatism.

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