Belief Quote by Alan Lightman
“I oppose any belief that contradicts experimental evidence as determined by the methods of science. All beliefs not in such contradiction may be considered as faith. Whether faith in a particular belief is beneficial or not is another matter.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Scientific Method and Belief, Alan Lightman, 2005
Science should guide belief; contradictions between evidence and claim invalidate the claim, while non‑contradictory beliefs are faith.
In simple terms: Science rules belief; non‑contradiction is faith.
Key Takeaway
Check evidence before accepting belief.
Themes
science
belief
faith
epistemology
Mood
critical
inquisitive
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- research evaluation
- policy making
- education curricula
- personal decision making
Key Concepts
empiricism
falsifiability
philosophy of science
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you distinguish faith from evidence‑based belief?
- When is faith useful?
A Different Perspective
Faith may persist despite evidence, influencing choices.
