Accepted Quote by Arthur Jensen
“The orthodox environmental theories [of heredity] have been accepted not because they have stood up under proper scientific investigations, but because they harmonize so well with our democratic belief in human equality.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Mismeasure of Science, 1990
He argues that environmental theories of heredity are accepted more for aligning with democratic equality than for scientific proof.
In simple terms: Environmental heredity theories are popular for ideological reasons.
Critically evaluate scientific claims beyond ideology.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic curricula
- policy debates
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence supports or refutes these theories?
- How should ideology influence scientific acceptance?
Scientific acceptance also depends on empirical evidence.