Claims Quote by Anthony Standen
“There are science teachers who actually claim that they teach "a healthy skepticism." They do not. They teach a profound gullibility, and their dupes, trained not to think for themselves, will swallow any egregious rot, provided it is dressed up with long words and an affectation of objectivity to make it sound scientific.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The New Science of Politics, 1975
He claims that so-called scientific skepticism is actually a form of gullibility, leading people to accept complex jargon as truth.
In simple terms: Skeptical teaching can mask gullibility.
Key Takeaway
Question authority and demand clear evidence.
Themes
education
critical thinking
skepticism
media literacy
Mood
analytical
skeptical
Type
educational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- school curricula
- public discourse
- media consumption
- policy making
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
scientific literacy
propaganda
intellectual honesty
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you evaluate the credibility of complex arguments?
- What habits foster true critical thinking?
A Different Perspective
Even with skepticism, people may still be swayed by persuasive language.
