Approach Quote by Gordon Stein
“We should always keep an open mind about any new phenomenon in nature. To merely say that's impossible, therefore it doesn't exist, is to commit a serious error. A much better approach would be to say That's quite unlikely, but show me the evidence you have that says that it may be so. It would be the height of arrogance to think that man knows everything possible about the Universe or the Earth. There are many things yet to be discovered, and that is why we have scientific research (or any kind of research). That should be the rationalist's approach to parapsychology and the occult.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Paranormal Investigations by Gordon Stein, 1995
Advocates scientific openness, demanding evidence before dismissing unlikely phenomena, warning against arrogance in claiming complete knowledge.
In simple terms: Stay open, ask for proof, avoid certainty without evidence.
Key Takeaway
Seek evidence, keep humility.
Themes
science
skepticism
humility
research
open‑mindedness
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- evaluating new theories
- debating paranormal claims
- designing experiments
- peer review
Key Concepts
Epistemology
critical thinking
scientific method
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence would change your view?
- How do you balance skepticism with curiosity?
A Different Perspective
Assuming impossibility can halt progress and ignore potential discoveries.
