Complicated Quote by Bertrand Russell
“Scientific method, although in its more refined forms it may seem complicated, is in essence remarkably simply. It consists in observing such facts as will enable the observer to discover general laws governing facts of the kind in question. The two stages, first of observation, and second of inference to a law, are both essential, and each is susceptible of almost indefinite refinement. (1931)”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Principles of Mathematics, 1903
The scientific method, though seemingly complex, is fundamentally simple: observe, infer, and refine laws, both stages are essential and endlessly improvable.
In simple terms: Science is about observing and forming laws, refined over time.
Key Takeaway
Apply observation and inference in problem solving.
Themes
science
methodology
logic
Mood
analytical
educational
Type
philosophical
instructional
When to use this quote
- research
- education
- technology development
Key Concepts
observation
inference
refinement
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we improve our observations?
- When does inference fail?
A Different Perspective
Complex problems may resist simple observation.
![“[I shall not] discuss scientific method, but rather the methods of scientists. We proceed by common sense and ingenuity. There are no rules, only the principles of integrity and objectivity, with a complete rejection of all authority except that of fact.” quote by Joel Henry Hildebrand](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fbf/joel-henry-hildebrand-36715_authority_i-shall-not-discuss-scientific-method-bu_1442028.jpg)
![“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)
![“Geometry, which should only obey Physics, when united with it sometimes commands it. If it happens that the question which we wish to examine is too complicated for all the elements to be able to enter into the analytical comparison we wish to make, we separate the more inconvenient [elements], we…” quote by Jean le Rond d'Alembert](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0d9/jean-le-rond-d-alembert-26487_able_geometry-which-should-only-obey-physics_6945.jpg)
