Precepts Quote by Carl Sagan
““What is there in the precepts of science that keeps a scientist from doing evil?””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Cosmos series, 1980
Science asks for truth, but moral choices are separate from empirical methods.
In simple terms: Science doesn’t dictate ethics.
Key Takeaway
Consider ethics alongside scientific work.
Themes
ethics
science
responsibility
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- clinical trials
- environmental policy
- technology development
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
scientific integrity
research conduct
Questions to Reflect On
- What ethical guidelines should scientists follow?
- Can scientific progress be truly neutral?
A Different Perspective
Science can be misused without ethical oversight.
![“[ 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)
![“the precepts of an absolutely perfect life, since they are the same in each Testament, have pointed out [to us] the same God, who certainly has promulgated particular laws adapted for each; but the more prominent and the greatest [commandments], without which salvation cannot [be attained], He has…” quote by The Church Fathers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/415/the-church-fathers-1438_commandments_the-precepts-of-an-absolutely-perfect-li_33593.jpg)
