Art Quote by Bertrand Russell
![“The significance of a fact is relative to [the general body of scientific] knowledge. To say that a fact is significant in science, is to say that it helps to establish or refute some general law; for science, though it starts from observation of the particular, is not concerned essentially with…” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/57c/bertrand-russell-69_art_the-significance-of-a-fact-is-relative-t_3087077.jpg)
“The significance of a fact is relative to [the general body of scientific] knowledge. To say that a fact is significant in science, is to say that it helps to establish or refute some general law; for science, though it starts from observation of the particular, is not concerned essentially with the particular, but with the general. A fact, in science, is not a mere fact, but an instance. In this the scientist differs from the artist, who, if he deigns to notice facts at all, is likely to notice them in all their particularity.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Problems of Philosophy, Bertrand Russell, 1912
A scientific fact gains importance only when it contributes to or challenges a broader theory, not merely as an isolated observation.
In simple terms: Facts matter when they affect general laws.
Key Takeaway
Focus on how facts shape theories.
Themes
science
philosophy
theory
observation
Mood
analytical
inquisitive
Type
explanatory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- research design
- hypothesis testing
- theory development
- academic teaching
Key Concepts
epistemology
generalization
methodology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this fact alter existing theories?
- What broader implications does it have?
A Different Perspective
Facts alone lack meaning without context.
![“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)
