Attitude Quote by Carl Sagan
“At the heart of science is an essential balance between two seemingly contradictory attitudes-an openness to new ideas, no matter how bizarre or counterintuitive they may be, and the most ruthless skeptical scrutiny of all ideas, old and new. This is how deep truths are winnowed from deep nonsense.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Cosmos, 1980
Science thrives on both open-mindedness to novel ideas and rigorous skepticism.
In simple terms: Science needs curiosity and doubt.
Key Takeaway
Balance wonder with critical thinking.
Themes
science
skepticism
innovation
Mood
curious
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- research
- education
- policy making
- media analysis
Key Concepts
philosophy of science
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- What ideas challenge your assumptions?
- How do you test new concepts?
A Different Perspective
Excessive skepticism can stifle breakthroughs.
![“[ When a religious couple wrote to Sagan about fulfilled prophecies, he wrote back in May 1996 :] If ‘fulfilled prophecy’ is your criterion, why do you not believe in materialistic science, which has an unparalleled record of fulfilled prophecy? Consider, for example, eclipses.” quote by Carl Sagan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/875/carl-sagan-160_belief_when-a-religious-couple-wrote-to-sagan-a_25095.jpg)
