The suspicion is in the air nowadays that the superiority…
“The suspicion is in the air nowadays that the superiority of one of our formulas to another may not consist so much in its literal 'objectivity,' as in subjective qualities like its usefulness, its 'elegance,' or its congruity with our residual beliefs”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Scientific value often rests on subjective qualities like usefulness, elegance, and alignment with existing beliefs, not just objectivity.
In simple terms: Science is guided by taste and belief.
Key Takeaway
Consider elegance and relevance.
Themes
science
subjectivity
belief
methodology
philosophy
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
scientific
When to use this quote
- research design
- technology development
- policy making
- education
- product design
Key Concepts
epistemology
aesthetics
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What criteria should guide scientific judgment?
- How do personal beliefs shape research?
A Different Perspective
Subjectivity can bias conclusions and limit objectivity.