May Quote by Leonardo da Vinci
“Science is the observation of things possible, whether present or past; prescience is the knowledge of things which may come to pass, though but slowly.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Notebooks, circa 1500
Science studies what can be, while prescience imagines what might become, though slowly.
In simple terms: Science sees possibilities; prescience predicts future.
Balance observation with foresight.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- research planning
- strategic forecasting
- innovation
- risk assessment
- long‑term vision
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you use both science and foresight?
- What limits does slow prescience impose?
Prescience is uncertain and may mislead.