Afterwards Quote by E. P. Thompson
“You know as a scientist that both were developed completely independently of each other in the laboratories. And only afterward were the political situations contrived out of which they could be justified.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Making of the English Working Class", 1963
Scientific discoveries often arise independently, later shaped by political narratives that justify them.
In simple terms: Science is independent of politics, but politics later frames it.
Key Takeaway
Separate scientific facts from political motives.
Themes
science
politics
history
Mood
critical
inquisitive
Type
historical
analytical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- academic research
- public discourse
- technology development
Key Concepts
independent invention
political appropriation
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities do scientists have to political misuse?
- How can societies keep science objective?
A Different Perspective
Political narratives can distort scientific intent.
