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Important Quote by Christopher Hampton

“You know very well that unless you're a scientist, it's much more important for a theory to be shapely, than for it to be true.” quote by Christopher Hampton
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“You know very well that unless you're a scientist, it's much more important for a theory to be shapely, than for it to be true.”

Christopher Hampton

About This Quote

Source Play: The Philadelphia Story, 1939

Scientists value elegant theories over absolute truth.

In simple terms: Elegant theories matter more than truth.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize elegance in scientific work.

Themes

science theory beauty ofideas philosophy of science

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical academic

When to use this quote

  • Scientific research
  • theoretical physics
  • philosophy of science

Key Concepts

research academic writing model building

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should truth outweigh elegance?
  • How to balance both?
A Different Perspective

Elegance can mislead if truth is ignored.

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