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Action Quote by Albert Einstein

“For science can only ascertain what is, but not what should be, and outside of its domain value judgments of all kinds remain necessary. Religion, on the other hand, deals only with evaluations of human thought and action: it cannot justifiably speak of facts and relationships between facts.” quote by Albert Einstein
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“For science can only ascertain what is, but not what should be, and outside of its domain value judgments of all kinds remain necessary. Religion, on the other hand, deals only with evaluations of human thought and action: it cannot justifiably speak of facts and relationships between facts.”

Albert Einstein

About This Quote

Source Essay: Science and Religion, 1949

Science describes facts; religion addresses values—both needed, but they serve different purposes.

In simple terms: Science tells what is; religion tells what ought to be.

Key Takeaway

Balance fact and value.

Themes

science religion ethics

Mood

thoughtful balanced

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • medical ethics
  • education curricula

Key Concepts

epistemology value theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we respect both domains?
  • What decisions need both perspectives?
A Different Perspective

Conflicts arise when facts are used to justify values.

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