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Influence Quote by Lewis N. Roe

“Science and observation can only ever tell us the way that things are. They have no influence on the way that things should be.” quote by Lewis N. Roe
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““Science and observation can only ever tell us the way that things are. They have no influence on the way that things should be.””

Lewis N. Roe

About This Quote

Science describes what is, while ethics or what ought to be; the two are distinct domains.

In simple terms: Science tells facts, ethics tells values.

Key Takeaway

Separate factual knowledge from moral judgment.

Themes

philosophy ethics science

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • research
  • policy making
  • education
  • public debate

Key Concepts

epistemology normative theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we bridge facts and values?
  • Can science inform ethics?
A Different Perspective

Science can be misused to justify values.

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