When we say 'science' we can either mean any manipulation…
“When we say 'science' we can either mean any manipulation of the inventive and organizing power of the human intellect: or we can mean such an extremely different thing as the religion of science, the vulgarized derivative from this pure activity manipulated by a sort of priestcraft into a great religious and political weapon.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage contrasts two views of science: as a neutral, inventive process versus a dogmatic, quasi-religious ideology manipulated for power.
In simple terms: Science can be seen as creative or as a weaponized belief system.
Key Takeaway
Beware of treating science as an unquestioned authority.
Themes
science
philosophy
power
religion
Mood
analytical
skeptical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- academic discourse
- policy making
- media representation
- education curricula
Key Concepts
epistemology
ideology
political manipulation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we distinguish genuine science from politicized rhetoric?
- What safeguards protect scientific integrity?
A Different Perspective
The quote may conflate legitimate scientific debate with extremist misuse.