Analysis Quote by Max Weber
“All the analysis of infinite reality which the finite human mind can conduct rests on the tacit assumption that only a finite portion of this reality constitutes the object of scientific investigation, and that only it is 'important' in the sense of being 'worthy of being known.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Economy and Society, 1922
Science assumes only a finite, knowable part of reality matters, ignoring the infinite.
In simple terms: Science focuses on limited reality.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of scientific scope.
Themes
philosophy
science
limitations
Mood
critical
inquisitive
Type
academic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- research
- policy
- education
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
epistemology
ontology
Questions to Reflect On
- What truths lie beyond scientific focus?
- How can we broaden inquiry?
A Different Perspective
May undervalue holistic understanding.
![“[In] the realm of science, ... what we have achieved will be obsolete in ten, twenty or fifty years. That is the fate, indeed, that is the very meaning of scientific work. ... Every scientific "fulfillment" raises new "questions" and cries out to be surpassed rendered obsolete. Everyone who wishes…” quote by Max Weber](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cff/max-weber-8418_accounts_in-the-realm-of-science-what-we-have-ach_126812.jpg)
![“The summum bonum of this [Puritan] ethic is the earning of more and more money combined with the strict avoidance of all enjoyment.” quote by Max Weber](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/8c4/max-weber-8418_avoidance_the-summum-bonum-of-this-puritan-ethic-i_205628.jpg)
