Assuming Quote by David Eller
“One does not have to prove a negative. One should assume a negative.”
About This Quote
It suggests that proving a negative is unnecessary; instead, one should assume the absence of evidence as a working premise.
In simple terms: Assume negatives instead of proving them.
Adopt a pragmatic stance on unknowns.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- debates
- scientific research
- legal arguments
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it safe to assume a negative?
- What risks arise from assuming negatives?
Assuming negatives can lead to false conclusions without evidence.