After chiding the theologian for his reliance on myth and…
“After chiding the theologian for his reliance on myth and miracle, science found itself in the unenviable position of having to create mythology of its own: namely, the assumption that what, after long effort, could not be proved to take place today had, in truth, taken place in the primeval past.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Invisible Pyramid, Loren Eiseley, 1979
Science creates its own myths when it cannot prove past events, filling gaps with speculative narratives.
In simple terms: Science makes myths when evidence lacking.
Key Takeaway
Question scientific assumptions.
Themes
science
myth
philosophy
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- research methodology
- science communication
- education
- public policy
Key Concepts
epistemology
historical reconstruction
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we distinguish myth from theory?
- What safeguards prevent speculative science?
A Different Perspective
Myths can mislead public understanding.