Approach Quote by Harry S.N. Greene
“The evidence from both approaches, statistical and experimental, does not appear sufficiently significant to me to warrant forsaking the pleasure of smoking. As a matter of fact, if the investigations had been pointed toward some material that I thoroughly dislike, such as parsnips, I still would not feel that evidence of the type presented constituted a reasonable excuse for eliminating the things from my diet. I will still continue to smoke, and if the tobacco companies cease manufacturing their product, I will revert to sweet fern and grape leaves.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public health testimony, United States Senate Committee, 1960s
The speaker doubts that statistical and experimental evidence is strong enough to justify giving up smoking, even if the alternative were unpleasant.
In simple terms: Evidence not convincing enough to quit smoking.
Key Takeaway
Question evidence standards before changing habits.
Themes
health
risk
evidence
habit
skepticism
Mood
skeptical
reflective
Type
argumentative
personal.
When to use this quote
- personal health decisions
- public policy debates
- risk communication
- addiction counseling
Key Concepts
statistical significance
experimental design
behavioral economics
Questions to Reflect On
- What level of proof would change your view?
- Can personal bias affect interpretation of data?
A Different Perspective
Evidence may be insufficient but health risks remain high.
