Brown Quote by Herbert C. Brown
![“Professor Brown: 'Since this slide was made,' he opined, 'My students have re-examined the errant points and I am happy to report that all fall close to the [straight] line.' Questioner: 'Professor Brown, I am delighted that the points which fell off the line proved, on reinvestigation, to be in…” quote by Herbert C. Brown](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6f1/herbert-c-brown-87064_brown_professor-brown-since-this-slide-was-mad_2917014.jpg)
“Professor Brown: 'Since this slide was made,' he opined, 'My students have re-examined the errant points and I am happy to report that all fall close to the [straight] line.' Questioner: 'Professor Brown, I am delighted that the points which fell off the line proved, on reinvestigation, to be in compliance. I wonder, however, if you have had your students reinvestigate all these points that previously fell on the line to find out how many no longer do so?'”
About This Quote
Source Lecture: Chemistry class, 1978
Illustrates how data points can appear to conform after re‑examination, highlighting confirmation bias in scientific analysis
In simple terms: Re‑examining data can change perceived accuracy
Key Takeaway
Beware of bias when interpreting results
Themes
science
education
critical thinking
Mood
analytical
instructive
Type
educational
scientific
When to use this quote
- lab research
- peer review
- academic seminars
Key Concepts
confirmation bias
data interpretation
scientific method
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure data integrity?
- What safeguards prevent bias in analysis?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on re‑analysis may hide original errors
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