Absence Quote by Charles Babbage
“The errors which arise from the absence of facts are far more numerous and more durable than those which result from unsound reasoning respecting true data.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Reflections on the Decline of Science, Charles Babbage, 1830
Errors from missing facts outnumber and outlast those from faulty reasoning with true data.
In simple terms: Missing facts cause more lasting errors than bad logic.
Key Takeaway
Check facts before conclusions.
Themes
accuracy
logic
knowledge
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
advisory
educational
When to use this quote
- research
- journalism
- policy making
- education
Key Concepts
Epistemology
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify data sources?
- What assumptions hide behind facts?
A Different Perspective
Facts alone don’t guarantee truth; interpretation matters.
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