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Change Quote by John D. Barrow

“When an important change takes place in science, in which a new theory takes the stagw, the incoming theory is generally an extension of the old theory which has the property of becoming more and more like the old theory in some limiting situation. In effect, it reveals that the old theory was an…” quote by John D. Barrow
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““When an important change takes place in science, in which a new theory takes the stagw, the incoming theory is generally an extension of the old theory which has the property of becoming more and more like the old theory in some limiting situation. In effect, it reveals that the old theory was an approximation (usually a very good one) to the new one that holds under a particular range of conditions. Thus, Einstein's special theory of relativity becomes Newton's theory of motion when speeds are far less than that of light, Einstein's general theory of relativity becomes Newton's theory of gravity when gravitational fields are weak and bodies move at speeds less than that of light. In recent years we have even begun to map out what the successor to Einstein's theory may look like. It appears that Einstein's theory of general relativity is a limiting, low-energy case of a far deeper and wider theory, which has been dubbed M theory.””

John D. Barrow

About This Quote

Source Lecture: Scientific Paradigms and Theory Evolution, 2005

New theories extend old ones, matching them in limits, showing old theories as approximations of deeper truths.

In simple terms: New ideas build on old, matching them in certain cases.

Key Takeaway

Recognize old models as stepping stones.

Themes

science theory progress continuity

Mood

inquisitive reflective

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • research
  • education
  • technology development
  • philosophical debate
  • science communication

Key Concepts

philosophy of science paradigm shift approximation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we identify when a theory is merely an approximation?
  • What are the risks of treating old theories as merely limited?
A Different Perspective

Limits of analogy may oversimplify complex transitions.

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