Claims Quote by Katharine Fullerton Gerould
“The insidiousness of science lies in its claim to be not a subject, but a method. You could ignore a subject; no subject is all-inclusive. But a method can plausibly be applied to anything within the field of consciousness.”
About This Quote
Science’s danger is presenting itself as a universal method rather than a specific subject; a method can be applied broadly, while a subject is limited.
In simple terms: Science is a method, not a subject.
Key Takeaway
Recognize science as a flexible method.
Themes
philosophy of science
methodology
epistemology
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- academic research
- innovation
- problem solving
Key Concepts
critical thinking
interdisciplinary research
scientific method
Practical Applications
- apply scientific method to diverse problems
Questions to Reflect On
- When does a method become a dogma?
- How to ensure methods stay adaptable?
A Different Perspective
Method can be misused without context.
![“[Science] has challenged the super-eminence of religion; it has turned all philosophy out of doors except that which clings to its skirts; it has thrown contempt on all learning that does not depend on it; and it has bribed the skeptics by giving us immense material comforts.” quote by Katharine Fullerton Gerould](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1d4/katharine-fullerton-gerould-13_comfort_science-has-challenged-the-super-eminenc_404393.jpg)
![“We put [young children] into kindergarten where their reasoning powers are ruined; or, if we can afford it, we buy Montessori outfits that were invented for semi-imbeciles in Italian slums; or we send them to outdoor schools and give them prizes for sleeping.” quote by Katharine Fullerton Gerould](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6d2/katharine-fullerton-gerould-13_children_we-put-young-children-into-kindergarten_670781.jpg)
