Ashamed Quote by Kary Mullis
“Scientists are doing an awful lot of damage to the world in the name of helping it. I don't mind attacking my own fraternity because I am ashamed of it.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: 1998, The New York Times
Scientific progress can cause harm despite good intentions, and self‑criticism is necessary.
In simple terms: Science can damage while trying to help; self‑critique matters.
Critically evaluate the impact of your work.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- research funding
- environmental policy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards can prevent well‑meaning research from causing harm?
- How often do scientists confront their own biases?
May generalize; all scientific fields.