Approximation Quote by Bertrand Russell
“Although this may seem a paradox, all exact science is dominated by the idea of approximation. When a man tells you that he knows the exact truth about anything, you are safe in inferring that he is an inexact man. Every careful measurement in science is always given with the probable error ... every observer admits that he is likely wrong, and knows about how much wrong he is likely to be.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Problems of Philosophy by Bertrand Russell, 1912
Science relies on approximations; claiming absolute certainty reveals hidden inaccuracies.
In simple terms: Science is about approximations, not exact truths.
Key Takeaway
Accept uncertainty and quantify error.
Themes
science
philosophy
uncertainty
measurement
truth
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- research
- engineering
- medical diagnostics
- policy making
- education
Key Concepts
Epistemology
probability
error analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you handle uncertainty in your work?
- What are the risks of claiming absolute certainty?
A Different Perspective
Exact claims can mislead and ignore inherent variability.
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
![“[A]n Obama presidency would be an amusing approximation of the Carter administration, complete with vaporous moralizing and foreign policy bungling.” quote by Emmett Tyrrell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/212/emmett-tyrrell-42438_administration_a-n-obama-presidency-would-be-an-amusing_38310.jpg)
