Aim Quote by Gilbert N. Lewis
“The scientist is a practical man and his are practical (i.e., practically attainable) aims. He does not seek the ultimate but the proximate. He does not speak of the last analysis but rather of the next approximation. His are not those beautiful structures so delicately designed that a single flaw may cause the collapse of the whole. The scientist builds slowly and with a gross but solid kind of masonry. If dissatisfied with any of his work, even if it be near the very foundations, he can replace that part without damage to the remainder.”
About This Quote
Source Lecture: Principles of Scientific Method, 1935
Scientists prioritize achievable, incremental goals, building robust foundations that allow easy revision without collapsing the whole system.
In simple terms: Science advances step by step, fixing parts as needed.
Key Takeaway
Focus on incremental, testable progress.
Themes
methodology
incrementalism
robustness
Mood
analytical
practical
Type
educational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- research projects
- product development
- policy design
Key Concepts
philosophy of science
engineering
Questions to Reflect On
- What incremental step can you improve today?
- How do you ensure foundations are solid?
A Different Perspective
Rapid, untested changes can destabilize progress.
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