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Generalize Quote by Francis Crick

“Human beings... are far too prone to generalize from one instance. The technical word for this, interestingly enough, is superstition.” quote by Francis Crick
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““Human beings... are far too prone to generalize from one instance. The technical word for this, interestingly enough, is superstition.””

Francis Crick

About This Quote

Source Interview: BBC Radio, 1970s

People tend to overgeneralize from single examples, a cognitive bias known as superstition.

In simple terms: We overgeneralize from one case, called superstition.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions from limited data.

Themes

cognition bias science critical thinking

Mood

analytical skeptical

Type

educational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • research analysis
  • media literacy
  • decision making
  • education

Key Concepts

cognitive bias superstition generalization

Questions to Reflect On

  • What evidence do you need before forming a conclusion?
  • How does superstition affect scientific progress?
A Different Perspective

Bias can limit accurate understanding and lead to false beliefs.

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