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Expecting Quote by Douglas Adams

“See first, think later, then test. But always see first. Otherwise you will only see what you were expecting. Most scientists forget that.” quote by Douglas Adams
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“See first, think later, then test. But always see first. Otherwise you will only see what you were expecting. Most scientists forget that.”

Douglas Adams

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy author interview, 1995

Emphasizes observing reality before forming judgments, then testing hypotheses, warning against confirmation bias.

In simple terms: Observe before deciding and test.

Key Takeaway

Observe first, then test.

Themes

observation critical thinking bias science

Mood

curious analytical

Type

advisory philosophical

When to use this quote

  • research planning
  • decision making
  • problem solving
  • learning new

Key Concepts

epistemology confirmation bias scientific method

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance observation with intuition?
  • When should you test early?
A Different Perspective

May overlook intuition that can guide insight.

4.4 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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