Conflict Quote by Karl Pearson
“"Endow scientific research and we shall know the truth, when and where it is possible to ascertain it;" but the counterblast is at hand: "To endow research is merely to encourage the research for endowment; the true man of science will not be held back by poverty, and if science is of use to us, it will pay for itself." Such are but a few samples of the conflict of opinion which we find raging around us.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Grammar of Science by Karl Pearson, 1892
The quote argues that funding research enables truth‑seeking, yet warns that focusing on funding can distort scientific motives; true science should not be limited by money and will ultimately be self‑sustaining.
In simple terms: Funding helps research, but science should stay independent of money.
Key Takeaway
Support research but guard scientific integrity.
Themes
science
funding
integrity
motivation
Mood
thoughtful
critical
optimistic
Type
advice
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- grant applications
- policy debates
- academic budgeting
- public science communication
- institutional planning
Key Concepts
economics
philosophy of science
research incentives
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance financial support with intellectual freedom?
- What safeguards protect science from becoming a commodity?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on funding may bias research agendas and marginalize curiosity‑driven inquiry.
