Action Quote by Austin Bradford Hill
“All scientific work is incomplete - whether it be observational or experimental. All scientific work is liable to be upset or modified by advancing knowledge. That does not confer upon us a freedom to ignore the knowledge we already have, to postpone action that it appears to demand at a given time. Who knows, asks Robert Browning, but the world may end tonight? True, but on available evidence most of us make ready to commute on the 8:30 next day.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Scientific Responsibility, unknown source
Scientific knowledge is provisional; we must act on current evidence despite future revisions.
In simple terms: Act on what we know now.
Key Takeaway
Use present data responsibly.
Themes
responsibility
science
decisionmaking
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
ethical
pragmatic
When to use this quote
- policy making
- medical treatment
- environmental regulation
Key Concepts
epistemology
uncertainty
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance caution with urgency?
- When should we wait for more data?
A Different Perspective
Future discoveries may overturn current assumptions, risking premature actions.
